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Date: November 3, 2006
Contact: Jason D. Turner
Jefferson City - With winter here and the temperature falling below freezing, problems can arise around the home, or business. The Jefferson City Fire Department would like for you to take a moment and look around the home, office, business, and apartment for some winter hazards.
Water pipes inside and outside are at risk to freezing. The fire department recommends removing outside garden hose and making sure the outside water sources are turned off, drained, and not leaking. Frozen pipes can burst and cause serious water damage to the inside of homes and buildings.
People wanting to use heat tapes, or products to protect water pipes from the freezing temperature should use extreme caution. The fire department recommends that you read the manufactures recommendations on the use and operation of these products. Avoid using direct flame contact when attempting to thaw frozen pipes. This could result in the flames coming into contact with products that could burn and increase the spread of fire.
Businesses with fire sprinkler systems should ensure that the building is well insulated and temperatures stay above freezing to avoid damage to the sprinkler system.
Also the Jefferson City Fire Department requests that all residents have heating and appliances checked by a reputable service company before winter weather hits our area. With the possible increase in fuel cost this winter and home owners looking for cost saving measures the Jefferson City Fire Department has a few safety measure to follow.
Space heaters should be UL listed. Have tip switches and be kept clear of combustibles. Gas furnaces should be checked and venting systems checked to prevent carbon monoxide leaking into living areas.
Wood burning appliances require special attention and the following should be followed:
1. Have flues cleaned and checked before using stoves or appliances.
2. Install stoves according to manufacturers specifications and consult local building codes.
3. Notify your insurance agent to ensure policy covers wood appliance installation.
4. Burn only seasoned wood.
5. Do not burn trash in wood stoves.
6. Do not vent solid fuel appliance into gas vent.
7. Allow stove to bun hot to heat flue before closing air vents.
8. Deposit ashes in metal can only and store in safe place.
9. Do not use flammable liquids to start fires.
10. Install and maintain smoke detectors and CO detectors in your home. Smoke and CO detectors save lives.
Anyone needing further information can call the Jefferson City Fire Department at (573) 634-6407.
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