With the onset of winter weather, the Harris County Fire Marshal is urging residents to be concerned about continued fire risk even with the recent rains. For many people, the current cold spell means increased use of space heaters and appliances. Officials urge residents to practice these winter safety tips:
Heating Appliances - Have all heating appliances and furnaces checked for proper operation.
Space Heaters - Only use space heaters with a "tip off switch" shut off. Do not store or place any items that may catch fire within 3 feet of the heater.
Fire Escape Plan – Have a family plan. Practice two ways to escape with your family. Know where you will meet outside the home and tell your children. Onve you and your family are outside, DO NOT GO BACK INSIDE!
Smoke Detectors - Test your smoke detectors at least once a month.
Ovens - DO NOT use your oven or stove to warm your home!
Carbon Monoxide Detectors - If you have natural gas in your home install a Carbon Monoxide Detector on each level - if it alarms leave out of the residence and call 911.
In other fire safety news, Commissioners Court approved an order to prohibit the sale and use of restricted fireworks—stick rockets and missiles with fins—in all areas of unincorporated Harris County due to dry vegetation and abundance of dead trees across the county.
The restriction begins December 20th and will last through the New Year holiday. Violation of the order is a “Class C” misdemeanor and carries a fine up to $500 a day. Fireworks Safety Tips can be found at: http://www.hcfmo.net/safetytips.aspx
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