EMSA offers cold-weather tips to keep you safe

• Operate a portable electric heater at least three feet away from upholstered furniture, drapes, bedding and other combustible materials. It should only be set on the floor.

Winter Weather: Take Steps

Taking preventive action is your best defense against having to deal with extreme cold-weather conditions. By preparing your home and car in advance for winter emergencies, and by observing safety precautions during times of extremely cold weather, you can reduce the risk of weather-related health problems.

Heat Your Home Safely

If you plan to use a wood stove, fireplace, or space heater, be extremely careful. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and remember these safety tips:

Use fireplace, wood stoves, or other combustion heaters only if they are properly vented to the outside and do not leak flue gas into the indoor air space.

Do not burn paper in a fireplace.

Ensure adequate ventilation if you must use a kerosene heater.

Use only the type of fuel your heater is designed to use — don’t substitute.

Do not place a space heater within three feet of anything that may catch on fire, such as drapes, furniture, or bedding, and never cover your space heater.

Never place a space heater on top of furniture or near water.

Never leave children unattended near a space heater.

Make sure that the cord of an electric space heater is not a tripping hazard but do not run the cord under carpets or rugs.

Avoid using extension cords to plug in your space heater.

If your space heater has a damaged electrical cord or produces sparks, do not use it.

Store a multipurpose, dry-chemical fire extinguisher near the area to be heated.

Protect yourself from carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning by installing a battery-operated CO detector and never using generators, grills, camp stoves, or similar devices indoors.

Cook Safely

Never use a charcoal or gas grill indoors — the fumes are deadly.

Never use an electric generator indoors, inside the garage, or near the air intake of your house because of the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Plug in appliances to the generator using individual heavy-duty, outdoor-rated cords.

Do not use the generator or appliances if they are wet because of the risk of electrocution.

Do not store gasoline indoors where the fumes could ignite.

AS ALWAYS KEEP YOUR CELL PHONE WITH YOU AND CHARGED. PLEASE CALL 911 IF YOU NEED EMERGENCY HELP.