A Fall Home Checkup Can Save Your Life

by Jill Steele

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), heating equipment is the leading cause of fires in homes during December, January and February. Why the rise? Because when the chill of fall sets in, most people break out some source of heat. Whether a fireplace, heating & air unit or space heater, any time you increase the use of heat there is a greater likelihood of fire.

In addition, rising fuel costs may tempt some to use alternate means of heating their homes in order to save money. However, the risk far outweighs any small monetary benefits you will receive.

Even if home security alarm systems are in use, it only makes good sense to take precautions. Let's look at the most common sources of heat used during cold months and how to prepare them for safe use in your home.

Fireplaces

The NFPA Journal states that chimneys and fireplaces rank number one as the causes of fires among all other types of heating equipment. This is because a chemical called creosote builds up in chimneys over time. This highly flammable castoff of wood lines the top of your fireplace and the sides of your chimney and can easily combust into a raging fire.

While home security alarms can certainly detect smoke and heat from these fires, it is always best to keep fires from erupting to begin with. Every fall, have your chimney and fireplace cleaned by a professional. This way you can ensure safety for you and your family as you snuggle close to that warm, flickering glow.

Another cause for concern when using fireplaces is the sparks they can produce. Often, in wood-burning fireplaces, the wood can pop, sending hot embers out into the room. The use of fireplace rugs is a common practice; however, if the rug isn't fire resistant, it will do little good. Make sure you use a fireplace screen and a fire-retardant rug as well.

Heating & Air Units

Just as you do in the spring before the blazing heat of summer sets in, call your heating & air service representative and schedule a seasonal inspection for fall. Because heating your home uses different elements of the unit than cooling does, it is always best to have a professional clean the coils to remove dust and debris that have built up over the spring and summer. This not only helps prevent some of the smell associated with turning the heat on for the first time, but also will aid in energy efficiency.

Space Heaters

In recent years, the NFPA has reported that heating equipment involvement was the cause of an estimated 45,500 home structure fires, causing 220 deaths and over $449 million in property damage. Portable and fixed space heaters were named as the cause of 74% of the deaths.

Thoroughly read all instructions included with any electric, gas or propane space heaters before beginning operation. While home security alarm systems can include carbon monoxide detectors and other helpful features, it is always best to turn space heaters off when you leave the room or go to bed. Also, never use gas heaters in an enclosed area. They require a good source of ventilation to avoid the buildup of explosive and harmful gases.

Even if the home security alarm you use offers smoke and fire detection, it is never wise to take chances. With a little precaution, your home and family can make it safely - and warmly - through the fall and winter months.

Jill Steele works for Monitronics, one of the largest home alarm system monitoring companies in the US. Monitronics offers protection against emergencies with state-of-the-art home security alarm systems and monitoring services. Visit them online today at http://www.monitronics.com.
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