Winter Safety
Did you know that fall and winter months bring more residential home fires than any other time of year? Many of these causes are from unsafe heating practices and neglectful care of heating equipment. There are many things you can do to prevent heating fires in your home.
- Keep a 3 foot area around heating equipment clear of any flammables.
- Have a "kid-free" safety zone around open fires and space heaters.
- Never use your oven to heat your home.
- Remember to turn off portable heaters when leaving the room or going to bed.
- Have your heating equipment and chimneys inspected and cleaned annually.
- Test smoke alarms once a month.
Snow Removal - Fire Hydrants and Exit Doors
Residents with a fire hydrant located in front of their home are asked to clean snow away from the hydrants when they clear their sidewalk or driveway.
Having hydrants that can be easily accessed by the Fire Department allows firefighters to use valuable time fighting a fire versus finding a hydrant. Hydrants should have three feet, or one meter, of clearance around them whenever possible.
Our Fire Prevention Bureau finds many exit doors blocked by snow. All doors should be checked to make sure they can open and are not blocked by snow.
Thanksgiving
As we gather with family and friends this Thanksgiving, the Missoula Fire Department reminds everyone to make fire safety part of your holiday plans. Thanksgiving is the leading day of the year for home cooking fires — so take a few extra moments to stay alert in the kitchen.