Winter Fire Safety Tips for Property Owners

Winter Fire Safety Tips for Property Owners

Whether you own a huge apartment building in Chicago or a traditional home, it is important to remember fire safety tips during the winter months. Fires can occur in the home, even if the temperatures outside are freezing due to electrical elements or heating systems. Checking up on portions of the property as well as updating fire safety measures will ensure that your Chicago fire safety plans are ready in case of an emergency.

Electrical Wiring

A common cause of the fire in the home is electrical wiring. In older homes or apartment buildings, electrical wiring can be as old as the building which can be a safety hazard. If you have not had your wiring inspected in a while, schedule an appointment with an electrician. The wiring in the building needs to be up to code to ensure that there is no risk of fire due to electrical components.

Even new wiring can be at risk of becoming a fire hazard. Rats and mice can easily enter the walls of your home or apartment building, chewing away at wiring. This leads to electrical fires. By having your wiring inspected, you can ensure that no damage is present and that the wiring is not at risk of creating a fire.

Heating Elements

During the cold winter months of Chicago, the temperatures can drop quickly. Homeowners then rely on heating systems to provide comfort. Using an older heating unit or a portable heater can provide instant warmth but can be a fire hazard. Fire safety in Chicago requires that any heating elements used in the home be done in a safe and secure manner.

If you have an older unit, such as a boiler or furnace, that is providing the heat in your home, have it inspected. If you are going to be using a portable unit, be sure that the system is newer and has been checked for any issues. Never leave a portable unit on overnight or in the home when you are away. One of the most common causes of house fires in the home is when a portable heater is left unattended and flames are ignited either due to overheating or the electrical component of the system.

Using any heating element in the home requires caution. Be sure to only heat your home in a safe and secure manner so that will be no additional risk of fire.

Fire Safety Precautions

Every home should also have the traditional fire safety precautions in place. This will include smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors and portable fire extinguishers. When you have these items in the home, you have an added element of protection. During the winter, check the smoke alarms and make sure they have fresh batteries. With the fire extinguisher, be sure it is in proper working order and serviced on an annual basis.

If you own an apartment building or large complex, be sure to have illuminated signs that point to exit points as well as fire extinguishers at points nearby to assist in the case of a fire.

By taking the proper precautions, you will be able to avoid any fire in the home or at least have the proper precautions in place to remain safe if a fire occurs.