Be Extra Vigilant About Safety, Indoors And Outdoors As Winter Lingers: Fire Officials Warn

GOLDEN'S BRIDGE, NY — This winter has already been one for the record books, but the Golden's Bridge Fire Department just wants to help make sure it goes down in history as a safe one.

From the Golden's Bridge Fire Department.

With arctic-like temperatures gripping the area for long stretches this winter, fireplaces, wood-burning stoves, furnaces and space-heaters have been working overtime, which has prompted the Golden’s Bridge Fire Department to caution homeowners to be extra safety-conscious.

“We’ve had several periods of consecutive days and weeks of sub-freezing temperatures and wind-chill feel-like temperatures of below zero, which has caused many homeowners to stay indoors and use their wood-burning stoves and fireplaces far more than usual, not only for aesthetic reasons, but to supplement their household heating systems,” explained Golden’s Bridge Fire Chief Albert Melillo.

“Most households get their fireplace chimneys cleaned prior to the season, but increased usage warrants mid-season cleanings by a certified chimney sweep. If you’re using your fireplace at greater frequency, there is likely a faster buildup of creosote, which is the primary cause of chimney fires. Even if you’re using dry, cleaner-burning cured hardwoods, such as oak, maple and elm, it’s wise to get your chimney professionally cleaned and inspected,” Melillo said, noting that besides creosote buildup, animal nests and structural damage can restrict airflow, increasing the likelihood of chimney fires and carbon monoxide backing up into living spaces.

The Golden’s Bridge fire chief noted that oil-fueled furnace chimneys also require service by a certified chimney sweep, especially during a bitterly cold winter when household furnaces are seemingly running constantly.

Melillo also issued cautions about electric space heaters, which he said homeowners often use to supplement their heating systems, particularly in great rooms that tend to have vaulted ceilings and are located above unheated garages.

“Space heaters should never be left unattended. Turn them off when leaving the room, sleeping, or just fetching a beverage from the kitchen. They should be placed on level, non-carpeted surfaces at least five to 10 feet away from bedding, drapery, furniture and other flammable materials. They should be plugged directly into a dedicated, 3-prong grounded, wall-mounted outlet. Plugging into extension cords and power strips pose a significant fire risk because they can’t handle the high amperage load,” said the Golden’s Bridge fire chief, noting that it's also a good time to check smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.

The heightened use of fireplaces and wood-burning stoves, as well as the use of propane or gas-powered emergency generators during power outages, increases the risk of carbon monoxide exposure in the home, according to Melillo.

“Prolonged use of emergency generators, even when properly installed a safe distance from the house, can cause carbon monoxide to seep into the home; and while a properly vented, unobstructed chimney sends most gases outside, some carbon monoxide can still enter the living space,” Melillo said.

“Carbon monoxide is colorless and odorless and can quickly become fatal if undetected. We strongly encourage residents to check that their smoke alarms and CO detectors are installed properly. Check expiration dates and insert fresh batteries to make sure these devices will do the job of providing early warnings, so you can immediately leave the house and call 911,” the Golden’s Bridge fire chief added.

Melillo also offered some valuable advice on fireplace and generator safety:

• Never leave an active fireplace unattended.

• Make sure the fire is fully extinguished before going to bed or leaving the house.

• Keep children and pets away from an active fireplace.

• Use a sturdy screen or glass enclosure to prevent sparks and embers from escaping.

• Never burn trash, cardboard, or treated wood.

• Dispose of ashes in a metal container and store it outdoors away from the house.

• Never operate a portable generator in a garage, basement or anywhere indoors, or under a window.

• Never store gasoline indoors.

In addition to home safety, Golden’s Bridge Fire Department officials remind residents to exercise caution when enjoying winter activities outdoors. “Residents should avoid walking, skating, or snowmobiling on frozen lakes and ponds. Ice thickness can vary significantly, especially farther from the shore, and recent temperature fluctuations can weaken ice without visible warning signs,” Melillo said. “What may seem like fun could quickly turn into a life-threatening emergency. If you’re planning outdoor ice activities, go only to the Lewisboro Town Park where the lake is monitored by Town officials – and follow the warning signs. No ice skating means no ice skating.”

The Golden’s Bridge fire chief shared additional winter outdoor safety advice:

• Dress in layers and protect exposed skin to prevent frostbite and hypothermia.

• Carry a charged phone and let someone know about your outdoor activity plans.

• Avoid alcohol consumption during cold-weather activities; it increases heat loss and impairs judgment.

• Know your physical limits and use caution when shoveling snow – or better yet, hire local teenagers or a professional snow removal company to do the heavy lifting.

“Awareness, education and practicing good safety, and taking the time to do something as simple as changing a battery, or making an appointment with a professional chimney sweep, could save a life and avoid an emergency,” the Golden’s Bridge Fire Chief said.

This press release was produced by the Golden's Bridge Fire Department. The views expressed here are the author's own.