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Space Heaters

City of Richmond News, Fire-Rescue News, Recent Fire and Life Safety Information | January 11, 2022

In the colder months, it’s sometimes hard to stay warm. Many households resort to using space heaters, but it’s not as simple as just turning it on. So, how can we keep our homes safe?

Winter Driving Safety

City of Richmond News, Fire-Rescue News, Recent Fire and Life Safety Information | December 17, 2021

Winter driving can be difficult and scary. So make sure you take all of the extra precautions not only when you’re driving but before you drive as well to help keep yourself and everyone around you safe as well.
*Make sure you warm up your vehicle before you start driving; this will ensure your window does not fog up as soon as you start moving.
*Clear all of your windows of all ice and snow before you drive so that you have the best visibility while driving
*Drive to the conditions of the road and the weather. If this means slowing down below the speed limit, that is ok.
*During the winter, is it recommended to have winter tires on. This helps prevent skidding on the ice and allows the vehicle to better maneuver through the snow because of more traction.
*Keep some extra blankets and food in the car if you get stuck and wait for a tow truck for a while; this can come in handy.

Extension Cords

City of Richmond News, Fire-Rescue News, Recent Fire and Life Safety Information | December 7, 2021

We use them in our homes and at work. But, did you know that we could be risking our safety if not used properly?
Never run an extension cord under furniture or rugs (this can cause the cord to overheat)
The use of extension cords should be temporary. If you need a permanent solution, hire an electrician to install a new outlet
Do not use an extension cord for more than one appliance
Never use a cord that feels hot or damaged in any way
Do not run cords through water or snow
Ensure the extension cord you use is rated for the products to be plugged in and marked for indoor or outdoor use.

Candle Safety

City of Richmond News, Fire-Rescue News, Recent Fire and Life Safety Information | December 7, 2021

Candles can be pretty to look at, but they cause home fires. Remember, a candle is an open flame which means that it can easily ignite anything that may come in contact with it.
Remember these tips to keep yourself safe from fires in your home.
Blow out candles before you leave the room
Put candles on sturdy surfaces
Keep candles away from anything that can burn
Don’t burn a candle all the way down
Never use a candle if there is compression oxygen in the home
Keep a fire extinguisher in the home
Use battery-operated candles instead of open flame candles