BRATTLEBORO — Now that there have been a couple of sizable snow storms, and the forecast is calling for some rain and warmer temperatures for this weekend, the Brattleboro Fire Department encourages you to follow these safety tips to maintain a fire-safe home:
• Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and make sure they're installed on all levels of your home.
• Keep at least three feet around your heating equipment free from fabric, paper, liquids, and other hazards, and turn heaters off when you leave the room.
• Have your chimney cleaned and inspected regularly by a certified chimney sweep.
• Never discard ashes from a wood or pellet stove inside or near the home. Instead, place them in a metal container outside and well away from the house.
• Plan and practice a home escape plan with your family.
• Make sure all exits from your house and business are free of snow and other obstructions.
• Shovel snow off your roofs to lighten the weight and to clear all vents.
• All heating vents on the outside of your home should be clear of snow for proper ventilation.
For more advice on home fire safety, call the Brattleboro Fire Department at 802-254-4831.