A Message from Fire Chief Smedley: Winter Safety at Home

With the potential for school closing and many people working from home during this winter storm, it’s more important than ever to make fire safety a top priority in your household. Cold weather, snow, and ice bring unique hazards — from space heaters and overloaded outlets to frozen pipes and slippery walkways. Fire Chief Smedley is asking families to stay fire smart and is sharing important winter and electrical safety tips to protect your family now and in the weeks to come.

Electrical Safety Tips:

• Unplug unused appliances. Not only does this reduce unnecessary energy use, it also prevents appliances from overheating or being damaged in a power surge — a common fire risk.

• Extension cords and power strips aren’t magic. More outlets do not mean more power. Avoid overloading circuits or using “daisy-chained” power strips — this is a major fire hazard.

• Use certified cords and chargers. Only use devices approved by an independent testing lab such as UL or ETL. Using cheap or incompatible chargers increases fire risk.

• Mind the load. Only plug light-load appliances (phones, computers, lamps) into power strips. Major appliances like refrigerators need a dedicated wall outlet.

• Keep cords dry. Never use extension cords or power strips in bathrooms, kitchens, or unheated garages unless specifically designed for wet conditions.

• Let heat escape. Don’t cover cords or power strips with rugs, furniture, or snow-covered exterior cords — trapped heat can start a fire.

• Check regularly. Inspect cords and plugs, test reset buttons, and replace damaged equipment immediately.

Space Heater Safety:

• Keep heaters at least 3 feet away from anything flammable.

• Never leave heaters unattended or running while you sleep.

• Use heaters with an automatic shut-off feature in case they tip over.

Other Winter Safety Tips:

• Keep walkways clear of snow and ice to prevent slips and falls.

• Dress in layers to stay warm indoors and outdoors.

• Check on neighbors, especially older adults or those with limited mobility. Offer to walk their dog or help with trash/recycle bins on pick up day. 

• Ensure smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are functioning properly — cold weather means more indoor heating and higher risk.

Bottom line: fire prevention is just as important as staying warm and safe during a winter storm. By planning ahead and following simple precautions, you protect your family, your home, and your neighbors.

Stay safe, stay warm, and let’s get through this storm together.

—Fire Chief Corey Smedley
Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service