JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department stated that it receives more fire calls when temperatures drop rapidly, primarily due to people heating their homes incorrectly.
And with temperatures expected to drop into the upper 20s and low 30s in some parts of Southeast Georgia and Northeast Florida this week, they’re making sure homeowners are aware of potential fire safety hazards.
“Whether it’s a liquid fuel operator or electric heater it is to make sure you practice all the safety precautions,” said Damian Bell, Deputy division chief of fire prevention.
Bell encourages people to make sure that they are not using defective appliances that are old and have passed their life span.
Other Fire Safety Tips
Do not repair electric heaters
With liquid base heaters, do not fuel them inside the house
Keep your heater in a well-ventilated room
Do not refuel while the heater is running or hot
Do not go to sleep with your fireplace or heater on
Purchase carbon monoxide detectors
Maintain a three-foot radius around your heating appliance
Make sure your smoke detectors work
During the holidays, don’t leave food unattended
Ensure that cooked turkeys are dry inside and out before being submerged in oil - water and oil don’t mix
Keep a distance of at least 10 feet from the structure when frying turkeys
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