STAYING SAFE AT HOME THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
The holidays are a busy time in Baldwin. Families gather, kitchens stay hot, and decorations go up all over town. It’ s a season we all look forward to, but it’ s also one of the most dangerous times of the year for house fires and accidents. As firefighters, we see firsthand what can go wrong. A few simple steps can keep your home safe and your family together.
HEATING YOUR HOME Half of all home heating fires happen in December, January, and February. Keep space heaters at least three feet away from anything that can burn, and never plug them into an extension cord. Turn them off when you go to bed or leave the room. If you use a fireplace or wood stove, have it cleaned and inspected every year. And remember, your oven is for cooking, not heating the house.
COOKING IN THE KITCHEN
Unattended cooking is the number one cause of home fires. If you’ re frying, boiling, or grilling, stay in the kitchen. If you’ re roasting or baking, set a timer so you don’ t forget. Keep oven mitts, towels, and packaging away from the stove. If a fire does start, cover it with a lid, turn off the burner, and never throw water on grease. If it gets out of control, get out and call 911.
By Baldwin Fire Rescue
COMMUNITY NEWS
CANDLES AND DECORATIONS
Candles may look festive, but they’ re open flames. Always keep them at least a foot from anything that can burn, and never leave them burning while you sleep or leave the house. Better yet, use battery-operated candles. When selecting a natural Christmas tree, choose a fresh one, water it daily, and keep it away from heat sources, such as fireplaces, radiators, or space heaters. Turn off the tree lights before going to bed or when you leave the house.
CARBON MONOXIDE( CO) AND GENERATORS
Carbon monoxide is called the“ invisible killer” because you can’ t see or smell it. Make sure you have working CO alarms outside every sleeping area. If you need to run a generator, keep it outside and away from windows and doors to prevent any potential hazards. Never run a car or grill inside a garage.
FINAL THOUGHTS
We want everyone in Baldwin to enjoy the season safely. A few extra minutes of care— checking your smoke and CO alarms, watering the tree, watching the stove— can make all the difference. From our family at Baldwin Fire Rescue to yours, we wish you a safe and happy holiday season. aldwin BALDWIN BOROUGH NEWS
BRENTWOOD-BALDWIN-WHITEHALL ❘ WINTER 2025 71