Watch Out for Fire and Carbon Monoxide Risks during Cold Weather

As winter approaches, the risk of home fires and carbon monoxide poisoning increases. Colder temperatures make us crank up the heat and break out the space heaters and electric blankets - all of which can be fire hazards if used improperly. Additionally, gas-powered heaters and generators can produce elevated levels of carbon monoxide, which can become lethal if not used in well-ventilated areas. Not to mention the amount of time we spend indoors without open windows or doors. Naturally, there's a higher fire and carbon monoxide risk during cold weather. Is there anything you can do to prevent these risks from rising?

Here at Bradley Mechanical, we take our clients' safety seriously. In this article, we'll discuss the ins and outs of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, as well as how you can increase the safety of your home this winter.

What is Carbon Monoxide?

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas created by poorly vented furnaces, gas stoves, fireplaces or gas-powered equipment like portable generators or heaters. If inhaled in large quantities, it can be toxic or even fatal.

What Are the Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?

The most common symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, weakness, and confusion. The symptoms are often described as "flu-like." If too much carbon dioxide is breathed in, it can become fatal.

Carbon Monoxide Prevention

Fortunately, there are numerous ways you can prevent fire risks and carbon monoxide poisoning:

• Install an effective carbon monoxide detector. This is one of the most important devices you can install in your home. It can protect you and your family from accidental poisoning by warning you early of the presence of carbon monoxide. These days, it's common to find a two-in-one fire and carbon monoxide detector, making it easier to place in the home and maintain it. Whether you have one or a separate fire and carbon monoxide detector, make sure to track the battery levels and test the devices once a month.
• Never use a generator inside your home, basement, or garage. During the winter months, you may experience a power outage, requiring you to bring out the portable generator. Or, if you use power tools and work in the garage, it may be tempting to use the generator with a closed garage to keep the warmth in. However, the exhaust from a generator can quickly reach lethal levels if operated indoors. Only utilize a generator for your home no less than 20 feet from a window, door, or vent.
• Schedule routine maintenance. We recommend having your furnace, gas stove and/or fireplace checked annually to be sure they are in working order and have adequate ventilation.
• If you sense something is off, go outside. Unfortunately, carbon monoxide is odorless, making it difficult to detect. However, if you or your family members are feeling unwell and experiencing common signs of carbon monoxide poisoning, as discussed above, get everyone (including your pets) outside and call 911. It's always better to be safe than sorry in these situations.

Winter House Fire Prevention

Heating, holiday decorations and candles all contribute to an increased risk of fire during winter months. December, January and February are the peak months for heating fires.

One of the most important things you can do to protect your home and family from accidental fires is to practice extreme caution when using home heating equipment. According to the National Fire Protection Association, fires caused by heating equipment accounted for 16% of all reported home fires from 2009 to 2013. Likewise, it's important to turn off your holiday lighting and decor and keep an eye out for any faulty looking wires. If you notice your outlets overheating or power surges, it could also indicate electrical damage that could become a fire hazard.

Properly installing and maintaining smoke alarms could mean the difference between life and death in the case of a house fire. Smoke alarms should be interconnected so that when one sounds off, they all sound off. Test your smoke alarms at least once a month and replace them every ten years.

Stay Safe this Winter with Bradley Mechanical

Bradley Mechanical cares about the safety of you and your family. We want you not only to be comfortable in your own home but also feel safe living there. That is why we offer services to set up smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. We can also troubleshoot issues you may be having with your existing ones.

Our specialists are the best in the industry and are dedicated to giving you and your home the best service possible. Call Bradley Mechanical today at (804) 748-6728 to schedule a service call.