The Indiana Department of Homeland Security has declared this week (November 9 – 15), Winter Weather Preparedness Week.
IDHS states that this is the perfect time to review your winter weather plans, check your supplies, and make sure your home and vehicle are ready for the cold season ahead.
IDHS realizes that many Hoosiers turn to alternative heat sources during colder weather, such as space heaters, fireplaces, or wood stoves to keep warm.
IDHS urges Hoosiers to use these alternative heat sources safely. IDHS states to never use home appliances, such as ovens, as an alternative-heating source. Doing so can cause carbon monoxide poisoning.
Safety tips include:
- Keep at least a three-foot perimeter around space heaters at all times.
- Plug electrical space heaters directly into wall outlets, not multi-socket power strips.
- Have chimneys regularly cleaned and inspected by a certified professional.
- Keep the fireplace damper open while hot ashes are still in the fireplace. Closing it can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Extinguish fireplace fires before going to bed or leaving home.
- Keep space heaters far away from loose or flammable objects, such as clothing, curtains, bedding and furniture.
- Purchase space heaters that come equipped with tip-over safety switches.
- Never leave space heaters turned on in unoccupied rooms, and never go to sleep or leave your home with a space heater turned on.
- Refuel kerosene space heaters outside your home in a well-ventilated area and when they are cooled down.
- Only use the manufacturer’s specified gas type for gasoline-powered space heaters.
