Check Your Hot Spots

Rural Fire Safety - Check Your Hot Spots

It is sad that each year in this country fires cause over 6,000 deaths, over 100,000 injuries and over seven billion dollars in damage. Even more alarming is the fact that people living in rural areas are three times more likely to die in a fire than those living in mid-sized cities or suburban areas. Fire from alternate heating sources - specifically the misuse of wood stoves, portable space heaters, and fireplaces - are the number one cause of residential fires in the United Sates.

We believe the rural fire problem can be reduced by teaching people to recognize the specific hazards of the four most commonly used heating sources: wood stoves, electric space heaters, kerosene heaters and fireplaces. Please review the following safety reminders.

Kerosene Heaters

A kerosene heater can reduce your heating bill. It can also become the most dangerous thing in your house if you don't use it right. Buy K-1 kerosene only. Remember, there is no substitute for safety! Some other tips to keep in mind:

• Use only where approved by local authorities.
• Don't use gasoline or camp-stove fuel.
• Store kerosene outside and refuel outside as well.

Fireplaces

Nothing is cozier than a fire... as long as it stays in the fireplace. Remember to have your chimney cleaned regularly, because creosote build-up from burning wood can ignite your roof, chimney... even the whole house!

Electric Space Heaters

With proper use, portable electric space heaters provide warmth and comfort. But space heaters need their space. They aren't drying racks or toasters! Keep anything combustible at least three feet from an electric space heater.

Woodstoves

Don't blow your stack over fire safety! Some simple rules to follow when buying, installing and using a wood stove:
Get the manufacturer's written installation requirements and follow them. And check with your fire department and building codes engineered for your safety.

If you have any questions, ask the fire department. Fire prevention is their mission. Make it yours too!

Other files in the Fire Safety Series

Winter Fire Safety Tips for the Home
Fire Do's and Don'ts
Check Your Family Emergency Plan
This is Fire

If you have any questions or comments please call us at 402-593-5785 or e-mail us.

Return to the Sarpy County Emergency Management and Communication Home Page

Created September 22, 1997

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