The winter season brings more time indoors, and, as the temperature drops, it also ushers in more opportunities for smoke, fire, and carbon monoxide–related hazards. Your detectors are your first line of defense against these issues and provide an early warning when every second matters.
Increased Winter Risk
Aside from using your fireplace more often, many homes also rely on space heaters to keep each room cozy and comfortable. Further, newer homes are built to be energy efficient, which means they are sealed up virtually airtight. While this is good for your utility bills, it also opens up the potential risk of carbon monoxide accumulation if ventilation is poor.
People also change the way they interact with their heating and cooking systems throughout the winter. They may use these appliances more often but pay less attention to them, especially outdoor units, since staying warm is on their mind. Perhaps the most dangerous issue of all happens during winter storms, such as we experienced in January, when the power goes out and people bring generators indoors or too close to living spaces.
Winter Safety Checklist
One of the most important things you can do during the winter is to have your detectors checked. Make sure you have backup batteries installed, even if they are hard-wired. You can check your manufacturer’s instructions to confirm that they are still functional and properly placed. If your detectors are more than five years old, it may be time to upgrade to newer models.
Other ways to keep your home safe during the winter include making sure that your propane tank regulator is not blocked and that pipes remain undamaged. Also pay close attention to any rotten egg smell, especially in the basement or on the lower floors of your home and call us immediately if you notice anything off.
Keeping yourself safe is crucial year-round, but the fact that we spend so much more time indoors during the winter makes home safety especially important this season. If you have questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact Advanced Propane. We are happy to conduct a propane safety inspection at any time and can schedule a routine service visit to help you maintain peace of mind.