A12 | Thursday, October 10, 2024 | Wadena Pioneer Journal
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WADENA FIRE DEPARTMENT
Sam Waln Jr, Sam Sundby, Dale Haman, Mike Klienke, Shawn Swenson, Matt Rousslang, Diggy Lorentz, Andy Worden, Chief Cody Yglesias, Warren Boen, Zach Haman, Aaron Ellingworth, Emily Uselman, Jeremy Zaic, Nate Niederman, Andrew Sundby, George Kveton, Tristin Godel, Logan Meyer, Damian Uselman, Arthur Thew
Space heater safety 101
Fire Prevention Week (FPW) is from October 6 to 12, and this year’s theme is “Smoke alarms: Make them work for you!™.” It’s a great time to refresh your knowledge of fire safety, particularly if you use a portable heater for extra warmth. Follow these 10 tips to ensure you use your space heaters safely: 1. Place the heater on a solid, level and non-flammable surface. Never place a space heater on a carpet, table or other piece of furniture. 2. Keep the space heater at least one metre away from combustible materials, such as bedding and curtains. 3. Ensure the space heater isn’t in a high-traffic area or doorway, where it could pose a tripping hazard. 4. Inspect the space heater for damaged cords or plugs before every use. If you notice fraying or damage, don’t use the heater. 5. Don’t use a space heater in a workshop or garage near flammable paints, gas cans or matches.
5 tips for preventing a fire in the garage
Preventing garage fires is vital for home safety, as this area often houses flammable materials and potential ignition sources. Here are five simple tips to help minimize fire risks in your garage: 1. Keep it clean and tidy. Regularly declutter the garage to prevent flammable materials like paper and cardboard from accumulating near heat sources or electrical appliances. Install shelving or storage bins to keep items organized and off the floor. 2. Check electrical systems. Ensure all garage wiring is in good condition and not overloaded. Consider hiring a professional electrician for periodic inspections, especially if you notice flickering lights or warm outlets. Install and maintain a functional smoke detector for early fire detection. 3. Handle flammable materials carefully. Store gasoline, paint and other combustible substances away from potential ignition sources, such as electrical outlets, to minimize fire risks. 4. Use tools safely. Adhere to manufacturer instructions and safety guidelines when using tools and equipment. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby and ensure everyone knows how to use it. 5. Install fire-resistant materials. Enhance garage safety by installing fire-resistant materials like drywall rated for fire resistance or fire-resistant insulation on walls and ceilings. These materials can help contain fires and impede rapid spread during emergencies. Make your garage a fire-safe zone by staying organized and taking proactive fire prevention measures.
6. Regularly clean the space heater to remove dust and debris buildup, which can pose a fire hazard if ignited by the heat. 7.
Never leave a space heater unattended, and always turn the heater off when you leave the room or go to bed.
8. Plug the space heater directly into a wall outlet— don’t use an extension cord or power strip. Moreover, don’t plug other electrical devices into the same outlet as the heater. 9. Always read and follow the space heater’s manufacturer manual to ensure you don’t overlook any critical safety instructions specific to your heater model. 10. Install smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors near where you use the space heater and test them at least once a month to ensure they work. These detectors can provide early warning in case of a fire or carbon monoxide leak related to the space heater. Visit your local hardware store to find a space heater with an automatic shut-off feature that activates if the unit tips over or overheats. This additional safety measure can help prevent accidents and reduce the risk of fire or burns.
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