Blog
December 05, 2023 01:03 PM
13 Hidden Fire Hazards in your House
posted by Corfu Fire Department in fire prevention
December 02, 2023 09:39 AM
Winter Weather Driving Tips
posted by Corfu Fire Department in winter safety
December 02, 2023 09:35 AM
Winter Weather Driving Tips from NHTSA
posted by Corfu Fire Department in winter safety fire prevention
October 10, 2023 07:17 PM
Fire Prevention Week Tip
posted by Corfu Fire Department in fire prevention
Winter is coming, and many of us may be looking for ways to keep our homes cozy and comfortable. Space heaters can be a great option for adding some extra warmth, but they also come with some risks. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), space heaters are the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries in the US. That’s why it’s important to follow some simple but effective tips to use space heaters safely and prevent fires.
Tip #1: Keep it at least 3 feet away from anything that can burn
One of the most common causes of space heater fires is placing them too close to flammable objects, such as furniture, curtains, bedding, or papers. These items can easily catch fire if they come in contact with the hot surface or the heating element of the space heater. To avoid this, make sure to keep your space heater at least 3 feet away from anything that can burn. Also, place your space heater on a flat, stable surface that can support its weight and prevent it from tipping over.
Tip #2: Don’t leave it unattended
Another common cause of space heater fires is leaving them on when no one is around or when you are sleeping. This can be dangerous because you may not notice if something goes wrong, such as a malfunction, a power surge, or a fire. To prevent this, always turn off your space heater when you leave the room or go to bed. You can also use a timer or a thermostat feature to automatically turn off your space heater after a certain period of time or when the desired temperature is reached.
Tip #3: Plug it directly into the outlet
A third common cause of space heater fires is using an extension cord or a power strip to plug in your space heater. This can be hazardous because these devices may not be able to handle the high amount of electricity that your space heater draws, and they can overheat and catch fire. To prevent this, always plug your space heater directly into the wall outlet. Also, avoid plugging in other appliances or devices into the same outlet as your space heater, as this can overload the circuit and cause a fire.
Tip #4: Make sure to have a working smoke and carbon monoxide alarm
A fourth tip to use your space heater safely and prevent fires is to have a working smoke and carbon monoxide alarm in your home. These devices can alert you in case of a fire or a gas leak from your space heater or other sources, and give you time to escape or call for help. To ensure that your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are working properly, test them monthly, replace the batteries at least once a year, and replace the entire unit every 10 years.
By following these tips, you can enjoy the warmth and comfort of your space heater without putting yourself and your family at risk of fire. Remember, cooking safety starts with YOU. Pay attention to fire prevention. Happy Fire Prevention Week!
March 14, 2023 06:37 AM
Fire Hydrants - Keep Them Clear to the Street
posted by Corfu Fire Department in news winter safety
In an emergency, every seond counts!
If there is a fire hydrant near your house, please do your part to keep it accessible through the winter season.
Safe Clear Away Zone:
Remove any snow or ice from the fire hydrant
Clear a 3 ft. path around the fire hydrant to allow firefighers to work
Clear a 3 ft. path from the fire hydrant to the road
February 02, 2023 03:17 PM
Winter Fire Prevention: Tips to Keep Your Home Safe
posted by Corfu Fire Department in winter safety
Winter is a time for warm fires, hot cocoa, and snuggling up with loved ones. However with shorter days, longer nights, and more indoor activities, it is essential to take steps to prevent fires in your home. In this post, we will provide you with tips and recommendations to keep your home and loved ones safe this winter.
Inspect your heating equipment
It is important to have your heating equipment inspected annually by a professional. This includes your furnace, wood stove, and chimney. A professional will check for any damage, leaks, or other potential fire hazards. Additionally, make sure that you clean and maintain your heating equipment to keep it functioning properly.
Space heaters
Space heaters can be convenient, but they also pose a fire risk. Make sure to place your space heater on a flat, level surface, away from anything that could catch fire, such as curtains, bedding, or furniture. Always turn off your space heater when you leave the room or go to bed.
Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Ensure that you have smoke and carbon monoxide detectors installed in your home, and check the batteries regularly. This is especially important in the winter, as the use of heating equipment and closed windows can increase the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Fireplaces
If you have a fireplace, make sure that it is properly maintained and inspected annually by a professional. Use a fireplace screen to prevent sparks from escaping, and never leave a fire unattended.
Electrical safety
Be mindful of electrical safety in your home during the winter. Do not overload electrical outlets, and do not use frayed or damaged electrical cords.
Cooking safety
Cooking is a common cause of fires in the home. Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking, and never leave the stove unattended. If you have to leave the kitchen, turn off the stove. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby in case of an emergency.
In conclusion, taking steps to prevent fires in your home this winter can keep you and your loved ones safe and warm. Make sure to inspect your heating equipment, be mindful of space heaters, check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, maintain your fireplace, be aware of electrical safety, and practice cooking safety. With these tips, you can enjoy a safe and happy winter season.
January 20, 2023 08:29 AM
Create a Fire Safety Plan
posted by Corfu Fire Department in fire prevention
December 12, 2022 06:50 AM
Winter Holiday Safety
posted by Corfu Fire Department in winter safety fire prevention
November 24, 2022 11:16 AM
Dangers of Turkey Fryers
posted by Corfu Fire Department in fire prevention
November 24, 2022 11:14 AM
Thanksgiving Safety Tips
posted by Corfu Fire Department in fire prevention
January 17, 2022 03:31 PM
Reminder Fire Hydrants - Keep Them Clear
posted by Corfu Fire Department in news winter safety
In an emergency, every seond counts!
If there is a fire hydrant near your house, please do your part to keep it accessible through the winter season.
Safe Clear Away Zone:
Remove any snow or ice from the fire hydrant
Clear a 3 ft. path around the fire hydrant to allow firefighers to work
Clear a 3 ft. path from the fire hydrant to the road
December 14, 2021 08:14 AM
Put a Freeze on Winter Fires
posted by Corfu Fire Department in winter safety fire prevention
December 02, 2021 08:40 PM
Christmas in the Village Parade Preparation
posted by Corfu Fire Department in news
The members of the Corfu Fire Department worked this evening to prepare the fire trucks for the Christmas in the Village celebration!
December 01, 2021 12:17 PM
Space Heater Safety
posted by Corfu Fire Department in winter safety fire prevention
December 01, 2021 12:14 PM
Portable Heater Fire Safety
posted by Corfu Fire Department in winter safety fire prevention
December 01, 2021 12:07 PM
Christmas Tree & Decoration Fires
posted by Corfu Fire Department in winter safety fire prevention
December 01, 2021 12:06 PM
Christmas Tree Safety Tips
posted by Corfu Fire Department in winter safety fire prevention
December 01, 2021 12:04 PM
Deck the Halls with Fire Safety
posted by Corfu Fire Department in fire prevention
December 01, 2021 12:02 PM
Fire Hydrants - Keep Them Clear
posted by Corfu Fire Department in news winter safety
In an emergency, every seond counts!
If there is a fire hydrant near your house, please do your part to keep it accessible through the winter season.
Safe Clear Away Zone:
Remove any snow or ice from the fire hydrant
Clear a 3 ft. path around the fire hydrant to allow firefighers to work
Clear a 3 ft. path from the fire hydrant to the road
November 10, 2021 07:34 PM
Carbon Monoxide Safety
posted by Corfu Fire Department in fire prevention carbon monoxide
November 02, 2021 08:35 PM
Dangers of Turkey Fryers
posted by Corfu Fire Department in fire prevention
November 02, 2021 08:20 PM
Placement of Smoke Alarms
posted by Corfu Fire Department in fire prevention
November 02, 2021 08:16 PM
Is your Home a Fire Hazard?
posted by Corfu Fire Department in fire prevention
November 02, 2021 08:15 PM
What to do if a Fire Starts
posted by Corfu Fire Department in fire prevention
October 29, 2021 10:49 AM
Using a Fire Extinguisher P.A.S.S. Acronym
posted by Corfu Fire Department in training
June 23, 2021 10:14 AM
Welcome to Our Website!
posted by Corfu Fire Department in news
Welcome to our new and improved website! We recently updated our website and we hope this allows the community to stay more informed. Check back later for updates on fundraisers, fire calls/jobs, and exciting information!
