FIRE SAFETY TIPS FOR BEING CAREFUL DURING COLD WEATHER
Temperatures in and around Horry County are below freezing and expected to remain low for some time, requiring residents and guests to heat residences in a variety of ways.
While staying warm is of the utmost importance, Horry County Fire Rescue is imploring everyone to stay warm safely.
Remember:
o Regardless of the season or weather, always have working and tested smoke alarms.
o If you're burning any kind of fuel to heat your house, make sure you have working and tested carbon monoxide detectors/alarms.
o No matter if you're running a fireplace, space heater, gas heater, etc., always keep at least three feet between your heater and anything that could catch fire.
o No matter the heating equipment, have proper ventilation.
o Electric space heaters are for temporary use only and should be plugged directly into the wall.
o Never keep fuels/flammable liquids inside your house.
o Your HVAC unit and system should be regularly inspected and running optimally.
o Your chimney and fireplace should be regularly inspected and cleaned, ensuring it's working properly and safely.
o Make sure you have a metal mesh screen in front of your fireplace so embers or sparks don't jump out, potentially causing a fire or burns.
o Never leave a fireplace, space or gas heater running without someone around to watch it closely.
o Never use any heating equipment if it's damaged or has significant wear and tear—dangerous!
o In the event you lose power, never run a generator inside your house or garage. Only run these outside, in well ventilated areas. Never re-fuel generators while they're hot and running.
If you aren't already, make sure you're following Horry County Emergency Management and closely monitoring local forecasts.
HCFR cares about your safety!
