Home heat takes extra care
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Staff Report - Published: August 24, 2008
In light of the high cost of heating fuels this year, many Vermonters will be using alternative heating sources for all or part of their heating needs. Fire safety officials statewide are very concerned about the potential for an enormous increase in fires and fire deaths.
According to Michael Greenia, educational coordinator with the state's Division of Fire Safety, Vermont experienced the highest fire death rate of any state in the nation during the fuel shortages of the 1980s, and Vermont remains vulnerable.
"The number one cause of fires in the rest of the country is from cooking," Greenia explains, "but here in Vermont heating is the primary cause of fires." Among the contributing factors in Vermont, compared to other states, are: a higher need for heating generally, older homes and older, poorly maintained heating equipment.
To assist the fire service, the Department of Public Safety's Division of Fire Safety is hosting special regional wood heating safety seminars around the state for fire department officials. For more information contact the Division of Fire Safety Educational Coordinator, Michael Greenia at 479-7587 or visit the Public Safety Departments Division of Fire Safety Web site.
The Division of Fire Safety wishes to remind everyone of the top 10 safety messages:
1. Install photoelectric smoke and carbon monoxide alarms on every level of the home.
2. Keep all combustibles at least 3 feet away from heating equipment, or according to manufacturer's instructions.
3. Never leave portable space heaters and candles unattended; turn off heaters before going to bed.
4. Clean chimneys and vent pipes annually and put ashes in a metal container.
5. Unvented heaters should have a carbon monoxide alarm in the same room.
6. Never use lighter fluid, kerosene, diesel fuel, or gasoline to start a fire.
7. Store gasoline and heating fuels in proper containers outside the home.
8. Always use the proper grade and type of fuel for heating equipment.
9. Plan and practice escape plans several times a year.
10. Install heating equipment according to safety codes and manufacturer's instructions. It's best to have a professional install the equipment.
Remember, above all, the use of early warning devices and education is what saves people.
ON THE NET
Vermont Department of Public Safety, Division of Fire Safety
www.dps.state.vt.us/fire/
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