For homeowners, preparing for winter often means making sure your home is warm and cozy. But are you also taking steps to keep your home and your family safe? This winter, take some steps to ensure that your home and family are safe all winter long!

1. Test alarms

Between your fireplace, space heaters and other home heating options, there are potential fire hazards throughout your home. The best way to keep your family safe and protected is to check that all of your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working and have fresh batteries.

2. Don’t leave space heaters unattended

Some parts of your home may be colder than others, so having a space heater can help to keep those areas of your home warm. However, you should never leave space heaters unattended. You can also avoid potential fire hazards by ensuring that space heaters are not coming into contact with curtains, high pile rugs and other items that could pose a risk.

3. Practice holiday safety

During the holiday season, candles, string lights and Christmas trees can all pose a danger if they’re not handled properly. Don’t leave candles unattended and opt to use battery-operated candles where appropriate. Make sure cords and cables are kept away from water and don’t overload power bars with too many items.

4. Check your heating systems

Annual furnace maintenance isn’t the only way to ensure your heating systems are safe for the winter. Check the outdoor unit to ensure it’s not obstructed by debris, and clean your chimney and fireplace. Replace your furnace filters and, while you’re at it, clean out your dryer vent; blocked dryer vents can pose a serious fire risk.

Make sure you have your home heating fuel delivered in a safe and timely manner! Learn more about Bryan’s Fuel’s home fuel delivery services.