Space Heaters, Candles and Fireplaces: Winter Fire Safety for Long Island Homes

Home fires climb sharply between December and February. Heating equipment, holiday decorations and candles are behind many of the calls we get each winter.

Space Heater Safety

• Keep heaters at least three feet from anything that can burn
• Plug directly into the wall — never use an extension cord
• Turn them off when you leave the room or go to sleep
• Choose models with automatic tip-over shutoff

Fireplace and Chimney Safety

• Have your chimney inspected and cleaned every year
• Use a screen to catch sparks
• Let ashes cool completely, then store them in a metal can outside

Candles and Decorations

• Never leave candles burning unattended
• Keep them away from curtains, trees and pets
• Consider flameless LED candles

Smoke Detectors

Test detectors monthly and replace batteries twice a year. Every bedroom and every floor needs one.

After a Fire

Even a small fire leaves smoke and soot that spreads throughout the home and keeps causing damage over time. Call a professional quickly to stop corrosion and odor from setting in.

Alfa Restorations provides 24/7 fire and smoke damage restoration on Long Island. Call (516) 306-7749.