Winter Safety
Statistics show that sales of electrical products increase during December. This increase in electrical product purchases, combined with the advent of colder weather in many parts of the country, increases the likelihood of electrical fires, electrocutions, and injuries.
More home fires occur during the winter months than during any other part of the year. Heating equipment is the second leading cause of home fires in the United States. More than 65,000 home fires are attributed to heating equipment each year. These fire result in hundreds of deaths, thousands of injuries, and millions of dollars in property damage. View the ESFI library of safe heating resources including their Heat Your Home Safely infographic, to make sure your family and your home remain safe during the frigid temperatures.
Further, portable generators are commonly used in the winter as a result of storm-induced power outages. The Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that 50% of all portable generator-related carbon monoxide deaths occur during the winter months (November – February). Also, winter storms can lead to serious hazards such as downed power lines and flooding.
Following manufacturers’ instructions is the first step in avoiding electrical hazards and preventing deaths and injuries during the winter months and all year long. In this section, you will find safety tips and reminders to help you and your loved ones stay safe during the winter season.
Space Heater Safety – More than 65,000 home fires are attributed to space heaters. Learn how to use one safely.
Heating Pads and Electric Blankets Safety – Heating pads and electric blankets cause almost 500 fires each year.
Carbon Monoxide Safety – The winter months hold the highest risk for CO poisoning deaths. Every year over 200 people die from CO poisoning. Learn how to stay safe.
Last modified: December 28, 2020
