By Stephen Smoot
As colder temperatures settle in, so does the added danger to life and property from fire and other temperature related issues, as well as the health of those spending time outside.
According to the U.S. Fire Administration, part of the Federal Emergency Management Administration, in 2017 and 2018 “an estimated average of 32,200 heating fires in residential buildings “were reported in the United States. These fires caused 165 deaths, 600 injuries, and $367 million in property damages.
Statistically, these fires start most often between the times of 5 and 9 p.m. with most taking place between 6 and 8 p.m. Almost one third of heating related fires occurred during these four hours. January sees the highest percentage of any month with 20 percent of fires.
Almost four of every five heating fires come from confined areas, such as chimneys, flues, or fuel burners.
In many cases, remaining vigilant can prevent disaster. Fires in wood stoves and fireplaces create deposits of creosote, a substance composed of smoke, dirt, debris, and water vapor that becomes extremely flammable. Removing this regularly is vital for safe use.
Creosote starts as a flaky material that can easily be removed with a brush. If left to accumulate, it first forms a sticky tarlike substance, then a hardened candle wax like substance. At this point, it can be very difficult to remove without special tools. Long term exposure can also cause health problems, such as irritated skin and eyes, respiratory problems, and, in extreme cases, even cancer. Creosote removal logs can only perform part of the job, according to experts.
Other homes may use other alternative heating methods, such as baseboard, kerosene, or other space heaters. In many cases, flammable materials have been left too close to the heating unit, causing fires. Certain types of heating units can also increase the amount of deadly carbon monoxide in the air if placed in an unventilated location.
Make sure that smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working. Experts suggest that it’s best to change batteries twice a year to ensure proper function. Some do this when daylight savings time comes and goes to keep batteries fresh.
Studies show that the amount of cold that a person can tolerate while working or enjoying the outside is relative to what they are used to. Those from southern and warmer areas should consider temperatures to be in extreme cold range when temperatures are below freezing.
If working outside, keep track of the wind chill. Wind chills of -20°F can cause frostbite on exposed skin within 30 minutes. The body can also fall into a state of low temperature, or hypothermia. Prolonged exposure can cause shivering, fatigue, loss of coordination, confusion, and disorientation. Cold stress can even lead to heart attacks, especially with strenuous activities, such as shoveling snow. Those who have had heart conditions or other chronic conditions should check with a doctor before engaging in outside work in cold conditions.
Experts suggest that those working outside in the cold use the buddy system, or at least make sure that another person checks on them regularly in case symptoms appear quickly.