Complete Your Winter Checklist

11/16/2021 (Permalink)

By completing the winter checklist, you ensure that your family will be safe and ready for this winter.

Temperatures are creeping lower and lower as we move into the winter months. We suggest that you follow this winter checklist to ensure that you and your family are safe during this wintertime. Let this list prepare you to step into the winter season without any stress. 

Turning off the space heater

Utility bills are projected to rise this year due to the increase in gas prices. This means that many people will be investing in heating alternatives. If you want to read about our tips for using a space heater properly, feel free to read our blog, “Proper ways to use a space heater.” To ensure you are keeping your family safe, we suggest turning off space heaters when you leave the room.  

Cutting the bottom of the Christmas tree’s trunk

As many families prepare to head to their local Christmas Tree Farm, we like to reiterate the importance of cutting off about 4 inches of the trunk. Once you bring in a tree inside, it will start to dry out, making the pine needles just as flammable as a cotton drape. The sap of the tree will harden, which will make it impossible for the tree to absorb any moisture from the stand, which will make the pine needles from drying out. 

Blowing out candles

We get it; the seasonal candles will transport your space into your own little safe haven when it gets blustery outside. When you mix in how the nights are longer, people burn their candles longer than during our summer months. Forgetting to blow out candles creates a higher chance of having an unwanted situation. Pets are the most prominent suspects as they often can bump into them, sending the candle on the floor. The biggest tip we can offer you is that you will want to ensure that nothing in a 3-foot radius is a flammable material when lighting a candle. 

Getting your chimney cleaned

When was the last time you thought about cleaning your chimney? If it has taken you longer than a minute to think about you might want to schedule a cleaning. When people don’t clean out the chimney, they are letting the possibility of having toxic gases enter your home. Another factor to keep in mind is if there are animals that have made your chimney their home. By having someone come professionally clean your chimney, you are ensuring your chimney is free of animals. 

By implementing these tips, you ensure that you are winter-ready and know the steps to take to keep your home free of fire.