The New Orleans Fire Department (NOFD) is reminding residents to exercise caution when using home heating equipment as colder weather sets in. In a statement released earlier this week, the department emphasized the importance of safety measures to prevent residential fires linked to space heaters and fireplaces.
Superintendent Roman Nelson emphasized the importance of safety as temperatures drop, noting that “Colder weather often means people are using space heaters, fireplaces, and other heating sources more frequently.” The New Orleans Fire Department reported that heating equipment remains one of the leading causes of home fires during the cooler months, urging residents to stay vigilant to prevent accidents.
With such stakes at hand, the department isn't just offering words but also actionable advice. For electric space heaters, the NOFD insists on meticulous inspection: "Inspect cords before each use. If damaged, do not use the heater," they advise. They also remind users to keep heaters at a safe distance, three feet at minimum, from any materials that could easily catch fire and to unplug them when not in use.
The NOFD emphasizes the importance of regular cleaning for floor furnaces and woodstoves and cautions about the risks of carbon monoxide accumulation. According to the New Orleans Fire Department's website, residents should “open the chimney flue before lighting a fire” and use protective screens to prevent sparks from causing accidents.
For more detailed information on the NOFD's safety recommendations, please visit their official statement at nola.gov.
