While house fires can occur any time of year, there are variables in the winter months that can increase your home’s risk of fire. Although remediation is possible in some cases, fire damage can destroy irreplaceable items and put your home’s inhabitants in serious danger. Fortunately, there are a few steps you can take to minimize the risk of fires in your home this winter.

How to Prevent House Fires in the Winter

1. Use Heat Sources Cautiously

Heating equipment accounts for one in seven home fires. Always keep combustible items at least three feet away from heat sources. Because they require a fair amount of electricity to run, you should only plug one electrical heat source into an outlet at a time, and avoid using extension cords for these devices.

2. Cook With Care

The leading cause for all winter home fires is cooking. As you prepare holiday meals, regularly check items that have to cook for a long time, such as turkeys, to prevent the risk of fire damage to your oven and kitchen. Avoid wearing long sleeves while cooking, and keep flammable items away from cooktops and stoves. Only use items like pressure cookers, deep fryers, and other kitchen appliances according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

3. Practice Safe Candle Use

December is the peak month for fire damage caused by candles. If you light them, place candles far from any wood or other flammable materials. Ensure they’re high enough so that animals and pets can’t knock them over. Set a timer so that you remember to blow them out. For a safer alternative, consider flameless models.

Even with sensible practices, house fires can still happen. Should your home ever experience fire damage, the restoration experts at Blue Ridge Property Restore will help. Serving Berkeley County, WV, this dedicated company provides free estimates and can determine and execute claims onsite for convenience and timeliness. Browse through their full range of services online, or call (304) 262-8100 to speak with a team member.