MEMPHIS, Tenn. — With the freezing temperatures, people need and want to stay warm.
There is a safe way to do that.
Local 24 News Reporter, Brittani Moncrease, spoke with Memphis Fire Department about the do's and don'ts of keeping warm.
When we hit cold temperatures like we've experienced these past couple of days, we know people are going to try different measures to keep warm.
It's important to keep safety first.
Space heaters, fireplaces, stoves, or other heating units are popular during cold weather like this.
Memphis Fire Department said heating units and fireplaces are good; however, you always should be cautious and pay attention to them.
If you use a wood-burning fireplace, make sure you have a large screen in front of it just in case the logs roll.
Keep a watchful eye on that fire.
If you are going to use a space heater, make sure there is at least three feet of clearance around the heater.
You don't want any items nearby that could potentially cause a fire.
Never leave your space heater unattended.
If you leave the room, disconnect the unit.
Always make sure your heating devices are up to date.
“Check your heating units, your space heaters. Make sure you check the wiring. If it’s frayed, if it’s discolored, if it’s warm to touch, it’s time to discard it and purchase another unit. Those older devices, if you had them over five or six years, it’s probably time to change it,” said Lt. Wayne Cooke, Memphis Fire Department.
The fire department said the winter and summer months are when they see the most fires.
That is because people are engaged in more indoor activities and use more electricity.
It is also important to keep a fire extinguisher in your home in case of emergencies.
Lastly, smoke alarms are essential. They save lives.
“We try to give the public as much information about fire safety. Particularly, we want every resident to have a working smoke alarm. We realize the value of having a smoke alarm. Those smoke alarms will alert you when you’re sleep and give you sufficient time to exit that structure unharmed before we arrive on the screen,” said Lt. Cooke.
If you do not have a smoke alarm and need one, you can reach out to your local fire department or contact the Memphis Fire Museum.