Fire Prevention Week 2024 | Smoke Alarms

When Old Man Winter arrives in Lehigh Valley and eastern Pennsylvania neighborhoods, many homeowners will enjoy a crackling fire’s warm glow and soothing ambiance. However, fireplaces can be hazardous, especially around children and pets, if the necessary safety precautions are not taken. 

Celebrating Fire Prevention Week in Allentown PA

Fire Prevention Week is an excellent time to remind homeowners to prioritize fireplace safety to ensure a safe winter season around the hearth. During Fire Prevention Week, October 6th to 12th, 2024, Wells & Sons is joining the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to raise awareness about the importance of fireplace and chimney safety.

The theme of NFPA’s 2024 Fire Prevention Week is “Smoke Alarms: Make Them Work For You!” Keep your home safe by ensuring a operational smoke detector is installed in each bedroom. Then implement a monthly testing schedule. Also, remember that all smoke detectors need to be replaced every ten years.

Why Fireplace Safety Includes the Chimney

A clean chimney is the key to helping to prevent fires. It also improves fireplace performance. Annual chimney inspections and cleanings by a Certified Chimney Sweep® are crucial in identifying potential hazards such as creosote buildup, bird’s nests, leaves, and debris. These hazards can lead to chimney fires, exposure to deadly carbon monoxide fumes, and structural damage. Professional chimney sweeps have extensive training, specialized tools, and expertise to evaluate the condition of your chimney, vents, and attached heating appliances and recommend repairs or replacements to resolve any issue.

Accidental Fires and Your Pets

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), pets accidentally cause over 700 house fires annually. The consequences can be devastating, with many pets losing their lives each year from fire and smoke inhalation. This is a stark reminder of the importance of following fireplace safety guidelines, especially when children and pets are around.

Fireplace Safety Tips 

To protect children and pets from fireplace-related accidents, follow these essential safety tips:

• Install a fireplace screen: A sturdy screen or glass doors will prevent sparks and embers from flying out and igniting nearby objects or burning pets.
• Keep a safe distance: Keep children and pets at least three feet from a lit fireplace.
• Don’t leave a fire unattended: A small flame or even smoldering ashes can quickly escalate into a dangerous fire.
• Use fireplace tools: To maintain the fire safely, invest in a heavy-duty, heat-resistant fireplace tool set. Your toolset should include a shovel, poker, sweeping brush, and tongs. Place them on a stand beside your fireplace for easy access.
• Educate children: Teach children about fire safety and the importance of staying away from the fireplace even when it’s not in use.
• Create a safe zone: Designate a safe area away from the fireplace where children and pets can play without risk of getting burned.
• Keep a fire extinguisher handy: Keep one readily available near the fireplace in the event of an emergency.
• Extinguish the flames: Always put out the fire before leaving the house or going to bed. Wait until the smoldering stops to prevent re-ignition.

By following these fireplace safety guidelines and prioritizing chimney maintenance, homeowners in Allentown PA, and the surrounding Lehigh Valley area can enjoy the warmth and comfort of their fireplaces throughout the winter season. 

What to Do If You Have a Chimney Fire

If you suspect a chimney fire, immediately take the following steps:

1. Get everyone out of the house: Evacuate the building immediately and call 9-1-1 when you are outside.
2. Close the damper: If you can do it safely, close the fireplace damper. It will help contain the fire and prevent it from spreading.
3. Stay outside: Wait to re-enter the house until the fire department says it’s safe.

Lehigh Valley Chimney Inspection for Fire Prevention

Don’t Wait! Fireplace safety starts with a chimney inspection by a Certified Chimney Professional. Contact Us Online! Our professionals have been sweeping chimneys across Bethlehem, Fogelsville, Hanover, Pottstown, and surrounding Lehigh Valley and eastern PA communities with superior service since 1979.