It seems strange to think of winter as a time that’s known for fires; summer, with its blazing heat and dry grasses, seems the much better “fire season” candidate. Though winter may be cold and snowy, the American Red Cross rates January and December “the peak months” when it comes to home fires.
As fire damage restoration pros, we at Intelligent Design Corporation are always here for you should the unthinkable happen. However, we also want to see your family stay safe from fires through this holiday season. Below, you’ll find just a few items to keep an eye on in this respect during the chillier months.
Holiday Decorations
Sure, Santa on the rooftop may be cute, the twinkling tree lights merry, and that giant inflatable snowman you always put in your yard a neighborhood hit—but be careful things don’t go awry. Because holiday decor isn’t always stored in the most hospitable of places (think sheds, basements, and attics), the cords can quickly wear down, exposing wire and putting the surrounding area at risk.
Because of storage factors, you’ll also need to watch out for rodent damage that can cause the same thing. Chewed-through cords are certainly unsafe!
Space Heaters
In lieu of pricey fireplaces, many Minnesotan families opt for space heaters to warm a chilly room. While these can be toasty in a pinch, they’re a major drain on your energy bills, not to mention a potential fire hazard. Park something too close to one of these and you’ll certainly see sparks fly.
Instead of wasting cash pumping heat into a room that will just lose it, consider hiring a window installation team, insulation contractors, or a similar branch of home pro to investigate the source of the issue in the first place. Not only will you save money in the long run, but you’ll also cut down on the number of fire hazards in your home. It’s a win-win!
Cooking
According to the U.S. Fire Administration, cooking is the leading cause of home fires—and across many families and cultures, time spent cooking tends to ramp up around the holiday season. Luckily, there are several ways that kitchen fires can be prevented or avoided. Having your stove regularly serviced is, of course, one, but simple habits like watching what you microwave and placing hot foods far away from counter edges are great places to start.
Intelligent Design Corporation: Comprehensive Home Protection
From fire restoration to residential roofing services, we’re here to keep your family safe and your home looking great, top to bottom. Give our Maple Grove office a call today at 763-315-0745