Fall & Winter Fire Safety in Woodbridge

The turn of seasons and clocks means it’s time for more seasonal fire safety tips from OWL VFD! One of our favorite scents of fall and winter is a fire (safely) burning in a fire pit or fireplace — keyword is safely! As usual, we’ve got the best tips to keep you and your family safe this fall and winter. Read on!

Home Heating Tips

Home heating devices are a frequent source of home fires. We wish for every home to be safe throughout the fall and winter. Here’s how to ensure the safety of your family.

• Make sure all heating devices are inspected and in good working order.
• Get central heating systems serviced annually or seasonally.
• If you use a gas heater, be sure to have plenty of carbon monoxide detectors installed throughout your home. And remember to check your smoke detectors and change the batteries.
• When using space heaters, keep the following in mind:
  • Keep a 3-foot radius of cleared space around all heaters.
  • Never place objects on heaters to dry.
  • Keep all combustibles far away from heating sources.
  • Turn space heaters off when you go to bed.

Fireplace Safety

There are few things that beat a cozy, crackling fire in the fireplace. Be sure to follow these tips, so you can always relax and enjoy those fires!

• Have your chimney inspected and cleaned every year to avoid chimney fires.
• Repair any cracks in the chimney when detected.
• Use screens around fireplaces to contain sparks and debris.
• Never use gasoline or other flammable liquids to start indoor fires.
• Don’t leave fires unattended.
• Keep combustibles at a far distance from fireplaces.
• Have lines and connections for natural gas fireplaces inspected annually.

Outdoor Fire Safety

The warmth from outdoor firepits on a cold night can be heavenly. We dare you to name a better spot for gathering with friends and enjoying life! Enjoy your time and keep the fire pit and other outdoor burning, safe with these tips.

• Only burn in contained areas such as fire pits.
• Make sure adults supervise children at all times around all fires. Make those smores from a safe distance!
• Review Prince William burning regulations and abide by all laws.

We hope you enjoy a warm, cozy and safe fall and winter season.

Occoquan-Woodbridge-Lorton Volunteer Fire Department (OWL VFD) is one of the largest and busiest volunteer fire departments in the United States, with almost 300 members. OWL VFD provides fire suppression, EMS care, and rescue services to 80,000 residents in our 27-square-mile area through the operation of three fire stations. OWL volunteer firefighters and EMT’s work the 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. shift, five days a week, plus 24/7 holidays and weekends. For more information on OWL VFD, become a fan on our Facebook page here.