FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Winter Reminders from the Skagit County Fire Marshal

The Skagit County Fire Marshal's Office is committed to helping residents stay safe throughout the winter season. By taking a few proactive steps, you can reduce the risks of fire and keep your home and family protected.

1. Maintain Your Heating Equipment

Winter is the time when heating systems work overtime to keep our homes warm. Whether you use a furnace, space heater, or fireplace, proper maintenance is essential to ensure everything is working safely.

Furnaces: Have your furnace inspected and serviced by a licensed professional before the heating season begins or when having issues. Clean or replace filters regularly to keep air flowing efficiently.
Space Heaters: Space heaters are a common cause of winter fires, especially if they are left unattended. Always keep them at least 3 feet away from flammable materials, such as blankets, curtains, or furniture. Never leave space heaters running when you leave the room or go to bed.
Fireplaces: If you use a fireplace for heat or ambiance, make sure the chimney is cleaned and inspected annually. Ensure the fire is completely extinguished before leaving the room or going to sleep. Always use a metal or tempered glass screen to keep embers from escaping.

2. Be Prepared for Power Outages

Severe winter weather can cause power outages, leaving you without heat or electricity. Preparing for this possibility can help you stay warm and safe until the power is restored.

Portable Generators: If you're using a portable generator, never run it inside your home, garage, or basement, as it produces dangerous carbon monoxide. Place it outdoors, at least 20 feet from your home, doors, and windows. Always turn off the generator before refueling and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
Alternative Heating: If you rely on electric heat, make sure you have a backup plan, such as a battery-operated space heater or extra blankets to stay warm. Never use gas stoves, ovens, or grills as a heat source inside the home; they can produce dangerous carbon monoxide.
Flashlights and Battery-Powered Devices: Keep flashlights and extra batteries on hand for power outages. Avoid using candles, as they can easily cause fires if knocked over or left unattended. Consider using battery-powered LED lights as a safer alternative.

3. Check Your Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Winter is a time when families are more likely to use additional heating sources, which can increase the risk of fires or carbon monoxide poisoning. Make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly:

Smoke Detectors: Test your smoke alarms monthly and change the batteries at least once a year. According to manufacturers’ recommendations, replace alarms that are more than 10 years old. Smoke detectors save lives by giving you early warning of a fire in your home.
Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Carbon monoxide is a silent, colorless, and odorless gas that can be deadly. Install carbon monoxide detectors on each level of your home, particularly near sleeping areas. Test them regularly and replace batteries as needed.

4. Snow and Ice Safety

Winter weather can also cause safety hazards outside your home. Ice and snow accumulation can damage your roof and make sidewalks slippery, increasing the risk of falls.

Clear Your Driveway and Walkways: Shovel snow and apply ice melt to sidewalks, driveways, and walkways to prevent falls and keep emergency responders able to reach your home if necessary.
Check Roofs and Gutters: Accumulating snow and ice can put stress on your roof, potentially leading to structural damage or ice dams that cause water to leak into your home. If necessary, hire a professional to remove excess snow and ice from your roof.

5. Have an Emergency Plan

In case of extreme winter weather, having an emergency plan can save valuable time and help you respond effectively to unexpected situations.

Fire Escape Plan: Make sure your family has a fire escape plan and practice it regularly. Identify at least two ways to exit every room in your home and a safe meeting place outside. Make sure all family members know what to do in an emergency. Be sure to dial 911 in case of an emergency.
Winter Emergency Kit: Keep an emergency kit stocked with essentials, including blankets, extra clothing, water, non-perishable food, a first aid kit, and a battery-powered radio and flashlight. This will help you stay prepared in case of power loss or being stranded during a winter storm.

By following these winter weather preparedness tips, you can reduce your risk of fire and other emergencies during the colder months. Whether you're heating your home, decorating for the holidays, or braving winter storms, safety should always come first.

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