Winter Residential Fire Safety Tips Every Homeowner Should Know

Winter is a beautiful season, but it also brings a significant rise in residential fires. With heating systems running around the clock, holiday cooking, candles, electrical decorations, and increased indoor activity, the risk of fire is at its highest between December and February. At Advanced Restoration, we’ve helped countless homeowners recover after winter fire losses—and we know that prevention is the most powerful protection.

Below are essential winter fire safety practices every homeowner should follow to keep their property and family safe.

1. Schedule a Heating System Inspection

Heating equipment is one of the leading causes of winter house fires. Before temperatures drop, have a certified technician inspect your furnace, boiler, and heat pumps. They’ll check for:

• Blocked or cracked heat exchangers

• Electrical issues

• Fuel-line problems

• Dirty filters or vents

A simple tune-up can reduce risk and increase efficiency all winter long.

2. Use Space Heaters With Caution

Space heaters can warm a room quickly, but they are also one of the top fire hazards in residential homes. To use them safely:

• Keep them at least three feet from curtains, bedding, and furniture.

• Plug them directly into the wall, not into power strips or extension cords.

• Choose heaters with automatic shut-off sensors.

• Turn them off before going to bed or leaving the room.

3. Clean and Maintain Your Fireplace or Wood Stove

Nothing beats a cozy fire on a cold night, but buildup inside your chimney can ignite without warning. Have your fireplace or wood stove cleaned by a professional at least once a year to remove creosote, soot, and blockages. Always burn dry, seasoned wood and use a protective screen to contain sparks.

4. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Working smoke and CO detectors can be life-saving in a fire emergency. Check each device monthly and replace batteries at least once a year. For added safety, upgrade to interconnected alarms so when one sounds, they all activate.

5. Practice Safe Holiday Decorating

Holiday lights and decorations bring cheer but also create electrical hazards. Inspect all cords for fraying, avoid overloading outlets, and turn off all lights before going to sleep or leaving the house. Keep candles away from flammable objects and never leave them unattended—flameless LED candles are a safer alternative.

6. Stay Alert in the Kitchen

The holidays mean more cooking, and kitchen fires are extremely common this time of year. Keep flammable items away from stovetops, never leave food unattended, and ensure children stay at least three feet away from cooking areas. Keep a fire extinguisher within reach and know how to use it.

7. Review Your Home Fire Escape Plan

Every family should have a fire escape plan, especially during winter when windows and doors may be blocked by snow or holiday decorations. Make sure:

• Every room has two ways out

• Children understand the plan

• Everyone knows the designated outdoor meeting place

• You practice at least once a year

Stay Safe This Winter

Fire losses are devastating, but most can be avoided with proactive safety measures. At Advanced Restoration, we take pride in helping homeowners protect their homes—and we’re here 24/7 if an emergency does occur.

If you experience fire, smoke, or soot damage this winter, our team is only a call away and ready to help you restore your home quickly and safely.