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Officials Advocate Seasonal Safety

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By LISA A. DAVIS

ldavis@tampatrib.com

Published: November 29, 2008

Cold weather, holiday decorating and trying economic times can make a precarious situation just about anywhere, even at home.

Since the mercury dipped to near freezing levels in Pasco County, several house fires have been started from people trying to heat their homes, according to Pasco Fire Rescue.

At least one ignited from a space heater being plugged in with an extension cord, Pasco Fire Rescue said. Another started from a stove being used to heat the home. Sometimes people will use candles to try to shake off the chill.

These are all no-nos, says Assistant Chief Mike Ciccarello of Pasco Fire Rescue.

"These little space heaters are a common cause for many of these fires," he said.

The heaters have too high a current to safely use with extension cords, causing the cords to heat and sometimes start a fire. But that's not the only problem with the portable heaters, Ciccarello said.

"The big problem with space heaters is people put them near combustibles," he said.
Combustibles include curtains, couches or anything that is too close to the heater.

Heating systems can be problematic, too, Ciccarello said.

"We encourage people to have yearly inspections of their heating systems," he said.

Central heat ducts can collect dust, which can ignite when the heat is turned on.

"That's really pretty common, too," Ciccarello said.

Filters for central heating systems must be changed or cleaned. Furnaces and fireplaces in homes also should be routinely maintained.
Ciccarello said if it's not meant for heating, don't use it. It's not worth the risk.

"The economy the way it is, too, there are going to be a lot of people trying to cut back on electricity," he said.

Some other tips he has to offer:

•Never tuck extension cords under rugs, doors or furniture, and make sure they are not frayed before plugging them in.

•If you don't have enough smoke detectors, get some. If detectors are hardwired into your home, get some backup battery-operated ones in case power goes out.

"It's a great Christmas present," Ciccarello said. "What's a $7 smoke detector to make sure you're protected?"

•Put fresh batteries in detectors twice a year during the time changes.

Other seasonal fire hazards include holiday decorations. If you decorate your house with lights, follow the instructions for how many strands can be linked to prevent overheating. If you have a real Christmas tree, make sure it's well-watered. Artificial trees must be flame retardant when using lights, and lights should not be strung on metal trees.

"Never leave your Christmas tree lights on unattended," Ciccarello said. The same goes for decorative candles, he said.

Besides avoiding fires at home, residents should also be mindful of seasonal crime-related dangers, Pasco County Sheriff's Office officials say.

Many people travel during the holiday season and officials recommend not advertising your travels by keeping your house in darkness or letting newspapers or mail pile up. Ask a trusted neighbor or relative to watch your house and pick up your newspapers and mail.

Use an automatic timer to turn on lights that would be on when you are home. Leave on a radio or TV.

Even when you're home, don't tempt thieves by piling gifts under the tree if they're visible through windows or doors.

"It's all about not giving a criminal an opportunity," said sheriff's Sgt. Troy Fergueson.

Reporter Lisa A. Davis can be reached at (727) 815-1083.

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