Home heating safety and holiday reminders!

    The month of December is upon us and with that brings snow and colder weather. This is a good time of year to give a few reminders on home heating safety and holiday safety.     If you burn wood, make sure to have your chimney inspected by a company with a camera to check the liner on your chimney. The Fire Department no longer inspects chimneys, because without a camera, we can’t be certain of the integrity of the liner. There are local merchants who have cameras to check chimneys. Also, you should have your stove installation inspected for the first time before burning wood.
    If you live in Presque Isle, the Presque Isle Fire Department will inspect new stove installations. To set up an appointment, please call our non-emergency number which is 769-0881. It is also a good idea to clean and check your chimney at least once a month for creosote build up.
    If you are using a space heater to supplement your heat in your home please remember to maintain 3 feet of space around the heater. Ensure that your space heater has the UL rating and has the tip over safety shut off switch built into it. If it is an electric heater remember to not use extension cords and never run the electric cords under throw rugs, etc. Keep the heater on the floor and keep them out of the high traffic areas as not to create any tripping hazards. Do not leave the heaters unattended and if you have small children please have adult supervision when running the heaters.
    The holiday season is also upon us and with that brings Christmas Decorations. Make sure to inspect your Christmas Lights and the wires before using them to decorate. Also, replace any bulbs that aren’t working. If you’re using a real tree make sure to keep it watered every day and be sure to pick a fresh cut tree.
    If you need any information on these topics, please feel free to contact the Presque Isle Fire Department at 769-0881. As always please remember to check your smoke detectors at least once a month.
    Adam Rider is Deputy Fire Chief for the Presque Isle Fire Department. He can be reached at 764-2537 or online at deputychief804@maine.rr.com.