Avoid Igniting a Fire in Your Cozy Home | SERVPRO® of New Center/Highland Park

Winter is in full swing here in Highland Park, and you’re sure to feel the chill. To warm up to local winter weather threats like snow, rain and, of course, freezing cold temperatures, you’ll need help from your fireplace or space heater.

These tools help make the winter season more tolerable, but without safety measures, they can quickly turn into a fire hazard.

If the weather we get is anything like the storm that struck Highland Park in 2018, you’re going to need to cozy up! Use these tips to warm up your home without igniting flames in the process.

Furnace Basics

Your Highland Park home probably uses a furnace and an HVAC system. Your central heating system helps send warm air throughout your home. To ensure your furnace functions well all winter long, you need to upkeep it often.

Checking for any issues and doing a good deep-clean of dust and debris are two essential tasks that will keep your furnace running. While you’re getting these chores done, go ahead and change your HVAC’s air filter.

Get into the routine of replacing your filter every 90 days or at the start of a new season to ensure your HVAC is good to go. Switching out your air filter is another vital task that will keep your HVAC and furnace functioning properly and will keep the air quality in your home clean and breathable.

Fireplace Safety

In the winter, a fireplace can be the ideal place to gather with your family to relax, share stories and, of course, keep warm. Fireplaces can be easy to use, but without proper maintenance, they can spark flames quickly. Cleaning your fireplace and regular inspections will allow you to light up the fireplace without the risk of flames.

If your home uses a wood-burning fireplace, wipe away excess ash, make sure your chimney is clear and clean up any smoke or soot remnants. If you use an artificial fireplace, remove the cover, thoroughly clean every surface and wipe down the cover before putting it back on.

Portable Heaters

If you utilize a space heater in the winter, you’re probably aware of how easy it is to keep your area warm and toasty. These tools are simple to use, but they can easily spark fires if not used with caution.

Place your space heater in an open area far from flammable items, and remember to unplug it before bed. Keep it on a flat surface to avoid tipping it over, and keep it plugged up directly into a wall outlet. Avoid using extension cords since they can overheat and start a fire.

Whatever heating source you use this winter, never leave it unattended. It only takes one tiny mistake to spark a devastating fire emergency this winter.

If you experience fire damage this season, give us a call at SERVPRO of New Center/Highland Park for immediate assistance. We’re here ²⁴⁄₇ when you need us!