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October Fire Safety Tips

Every October, the National Fire Protection Association celebrates Fire Prevention Week, which is the ideal time to review basic fire safety practices. October also marks the beginning of cooler temperatures in most parts of the county and concludes with Halloween, a holiday that kicks off the fall season of indoor and outdoor decorations such as lighted jack-o'-lanterns, ghosts and goblins -- which can produce fire hazards. It's important to bolster your fire safety knowledge in October to keep you and your family safe.

  1. Heater Safety

    • As temperatures cool in October, you will probably want to use the heater to keep your home at a comfortable temperature. Taking precautions when heating your home on chilly October nights can reduce your risk of fire. Whether you use a space heater or fireplace to stay warm, keep any flammable item at least 3 feet away from the heat source, advises the National Fire Protection Association. Turn space heaters off when you're leaving the room or leaving the house; space heaters, left unmonitored, can easily catch on fire.

    Candle Safety

    • Candles are frequently used in Halloween decor; votive candles light up jack-o'-lanterns, and elaborate candelabras can add to indoor Halloween decorations. However, candles, while festive, pose a fire safety risk. When using candles as a part of Halloween decor, extinguish them before you leave the room; left unsupervised, a candle can start a fire. Ensure the wick is fully extinguished -- with no spark -- when you blow out the candle; otherwise, the candle can re-ignite as soon as you walk away.

    Party Checklist

    • Fire safety is a hot topic for Halloween, so review fire-safety rules before hosting a Halloween party or sending the kids out trick-or-treating. Ensure your costumes do not have much fabric hanging from them; loosely hanging fabric can catch on fire when you walk past a candle. Keep open flames away from flammable decorations like paper tablecloths, crepe paper or dried flowers. The association reports that decorations are the first thing to ignite in more than 1,000 home fires every year.

    Bonfire Safety

    • A bonfire is a classic fall activity, allowing people to enjoy cool October temperatures alongside a roaring fire. However, bonfires pose a serious fire risk. When possible, build your bonfire within a fire ring, or a circle on the ground made of metal, stone or concrete that helps to contain the fire. Do not build a bonfire on a windy day, as the flames, sparks and ashes can spread during a wind gust. Keep a bucket of water or fire extinguisher on hand to put out the bonfire.

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