Emily’s Crime Watch – Tip #22 (Winter Safety)

It’s getting to be that time of year again – yes, I mean winter. There are some places that have more of a severe winter than others, but everyone can benefit from a few safety tips for the upcoming season.

Fireplace Safety

• Always use seasoned wood to help reduce creosote build up in your chimney. Creosote is highly combustible and can cause a chimney fire.
• Fireplace chimneys should be inspected and cleaned annually.
• NEVER use flammables or combustibles to start fires in your fireplace.
• ALWAYS dispose of fireplace ashes in a metal container and store them away from the house for at least seven days.
  

Carbon Monoxide Safety

• Carbon Monoxide (CO) poisoning can be difficult at times to distinguish between having a cold or flu. If undetected, high levels in the home can cause severe illness or death. INSTALL an approved Carbon Monoxide (CO) detector within ten feet of every bedroom or sleeping area. This is a law in many states.
• Check your Carbon Monoxide (CO) and smoke detectors seasonally or during the daylight savings times.
• Make sure all fuel-burning appliances are installed properly and working according to manufacture’s guidelines.
• Have combustion appliances inspected every year.
• Install an exhaust fan, vented to outside over any gas stove.
• Never use your cooking stove to heat your home.
• Don’t sleep in any room with an unvented gas or kerosene space heater.
  

Winter Driving Safety

• Clear and defrost windows completely before driving.
• Consider new tires. Tire tread can improve acceleration, braking, and handling.
• Remember overpasses, ramps, and bridges will freeze before the roadway. Drive with caution.
• Slow down! Decreasing speed will increase your handling ability and give you an opportunity to avoid most accidents.
  
  

Enjoy your winter activities! Have a safe and fun holiday season.



Jennifer Chase
Award Winning Author & Criminologist

Blog: http://authorjenniferchase.blogspot.com/
Website: http://jenniferchase.vpweb.com/
Crime Watch: http://emilystonecrimewatch.blogspot.com/
Book & Crime Talk: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/jennifer-chase