Spring forward time!

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Don’t forget: TEST smoke and carbon monoxide alarms this weekend!

It's that time of year again when we "Spring Forward" and change clocks (unless your clocks do it automatically!) and check smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. Here are our "Top Eight" Tips to remember when it comes to smoke alarms and fire safety this weekend:

1. It is indisputable that smoke alarms save lives. Smoke alarms are the best and least expensive way to provide an early warning system to alert you and your family to a potential fire emergency. Smoke alarms are designed to detect a fire in its early stages and alert people, so they have time to safely escape.

2. Smoke alarms should be installed in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home.

3. For the best protection, smoke alarms should be interconnected. What does that mean? When one sounds they all sound alerting you to an emergency early on and giving you critical time to escape. New construction requirements have included hard- wired smoke alarms with battery back-ups since the mid-70's. 

4. Nothing lasts forever - including smoke alarms. Smoke alarms become less reliable with time, primarily due to aging of their electronic components making them more susceptible to nuisance false alarms. Replace entire smoke alarm units every 10 years or sooner if they don't respond properly when tested. Why? The sensor wears out and may not activate in an emergency putting your family at risk. Always read the manufacturer’s recommendations as some models recommend replacement every 5-7 years.

5. DIY projects? Never (ever) paint over a smoke alarm. It will affect the operation of the smoke alarm, potentially disabling it.

6. Test your smoke alarm and carbon monoxide alarms once a month by pressing the test button.

7. Lightly clean your smoke alarms monthly when you test them. Smoke alarms get clogged with dust build-up which may affect performance. Vacuum lightly and follow manufacturer recommendations. 

8. If your smoke alarm “chirps” it may be time to change the back-up battery in your hard-wired alarm. Since 2018, Maryland law has required all battery-only smoke alarms (typically found in homes built before 1975 that have never pulled a building permit) to have a sealed,10-year long-life battery in the unit. Any "chirping" in these units is likely signaling that you need to replace the entire smoke alarm with a new one. 

Today's home safety and security technology has evolved beyond smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. Many families rely on household devices connected to the internet or smartphones to enhance safety and security. New technology can even notify you when the alarm is activated or if the battery is low. Take time this weekend to ensure your family has a fire safety plan and you have smoke and carbon monoxide alarms with the newest technology. And practice your plan with a Home Fire Drill to ensure everyone knows what to do in an emergency. 

Montgomery County Cold Weather Advisory

A Message from Our Partners at the Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security:

Montgomery County is under a cold weather emergency until Tuesday, February 3 at 12 PM. During this period, wind chill values are expected to reach 20°F or below. These dangerously cold temperatures can cause frostbite on exposed skin within 30 minutes and increase the risk of hypothermia.

If possible, stay indoors. If you must be outside, take extra precautions:

• Wear extra layers of clothing
• Take frequent breaks in warm locations
• Limit prolonged exposure to the cold

For more information about County services, contact MC311:

• By phone: 3-1-1 or 240-777-0311 (weekdays, 7 a.m.–7 p.m.)
• Online: www.MC311.com (available 24/7)

Cold weather puts extra strain on the energy grid and water systems due to extra energy use

There are a few simple steps that we can take to lower the strain on energy systems:

· Set thermostats a few degrees lower, if safe to do so.

· Postpone high hot water usage activities (laundry, dishwashing).

· Turn off and unplug (if possible) lights and appliances when not in use.

· Open curtains and blinds during daylight hours to take advantage of natural heat.

· Use the microwave when heating up small meals (helps save 80% of your energy usage compared to using your oven).

· Report all downed wires you see to 877-778-2222. Stay clear and do not touch or approach downed wires.

· Gas odors: If gas is smelled, leave the area immediately and call 911 or 877-778-7798.

· Report any main water breaks to WSSC water: 301-206-4002

As always, be prepared!

Stay informed by signing up for Alert Montgomery: Click Here

Follow us on social media:

o Facebook: Montgomery County, MD Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security

o X: @ReadyMontgomery

o Instagram: moco_oemhs

Write or edit your household emergency plan:

o You can use our Emergency Preparedness Workbook as a template: Click Here

o Feel free to review our resources through the OEMHS Resource Library: Click Here

Build Your Emergency Go-Kit: One Size Does Not Fit All

When it comes to emergency preparedness, there’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all kit. Every family is unique, and so should be your go-kit. Think of it as a personalized survival toolkit—designed around your household, your needs, and the types of emergencies you’re most likely to face.

While no two kits will look exactly the same, here are some items to consider including as you put yours together:

• Clothes and sturdy shoes that are appropriate for the weather
• Cash in small bills
• Hygiene Items (toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, feminine products, etc.)
• Eyeglasses
• Contacts and contact solution
• Communication devices/equipment
• Favorite personal or comfort items
• Cell Phone and chargers (including a portable charger if you have)
• Contact Information for your household members and members of your support network
• Medications, at least a 3-day supply (as well as a list of what you take, why you take them, and their dosage)
• Supplies for service animals or pets (food, water, medicine, leash, collar, harness, veterinary info)
• Important documents in a waterproof bag or container (Insurance cards, Medicaid/Medicare cards, photo IDs, proof of address, marriage certificate, birth certificates, copies of credit or debit

Cold Outside, Safety First Inside

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A Message from the Fire Chief

As we experience prolonged extreme winter weather across our community, the safety of our residents remains our highest priority. Power outages and dangerously cold temperatures can create challenging and potentially hazardous conditions inside the home. While staying warm is essential, it’s equally important to do so safely.

Each winter, fire departments respond to preventable fires and carbon monoxide emergencies caused by improper use of heating equipment during power outages. These incidents can be life-threatening, but they are also avoidable by following proven safety practices.

We urge everyone to take a few moments to review the information below and share it with family members, neighbors, and especially those who may be more vulnerable during extreme cold. Your Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service personnel are always ready to respond, but prevention is the best protection.

Please stay warm, stay alert, and stay safe.
~ Chief Corey Smedley 

Portable Heater Safety

If you are using a portable heater during a power outage, follow these essential safety guidelines:

• Never use outdoor-rated appliances indoors, including inside homes, garages, or carports.
• Only use heaters specifically approved for indoor use.
• Always read and follow the owner’s manual, including all warnings, cautions, and operating instructions.
• Ensure any heater in use has:
• Tip-over protection, which automatically shuts the unit off if it is knocked over.
• At least 3 feet of clearance on all sides from combustible materials such as furniture, curtains, bedding, or paper.

Carbon Monoxide (CO) Safety

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that cannot be seen or smelled. Because it provides no warning signs, carbon monoxide can quickly become deadly without working CO detectors in the home. 

• Install and maintain working carbon monoxide alarms on every level of your home. Detectors should be battery-operated or hardwired with battery backups.
• Know the signs of carbon monoxide poisoning, which may include headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, or confusion.
• If a CO alarm sounds or symptoms occur, move everyone outside to fresh air immediately and call 911.

Devices NEVER to Use Indoors

The following devices should never be used inside a home, garage, or enclosed space:

• Charcoal grills
• Camping stoves
• Gas or propane grills
• Generators

Using these devices indoors can result in deadly levels of carbon monoxide within minutes.

Generator Safety

If you are using a portable generator:

• Operate generators outdoors only, at least 20 feet away from doors, windows, and vents.
• Never use generators inside homes, garages, or near openings — even if doors or windows are open.

Additional Cold-Weather Safety Tips

• Do not use gas or electric ovens or stovetops to heat your home.
• If available, use permanently installed heating systems (such as propane or gas furnaces) with battery backups.
• Dress in layers, use blankets, and close off unused rooms to help retain heat.
• Check on neighbors, especially older adults, individuals with disabilities, and those who rely on medical equipment.

Cold Weather Probs: Winter Safety Tips for Your Home

With below-freezing temperatures in the forecast, a few simple steps can keep you and your family safe and your home's pipes from freezing. Please review the tips below to help minimize the possibility of damage.

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• Prepare your pipes in advance. Remove, drain and store garden hoses used outside. If practical, use an inside valve to shut off and drain water from pipes leading to outside faucets. This reduces the chance of freezing pipes just inside your house.

• Properly winterize automatic landscaping sprinkler systems. 

• Check and monitor any exposed pipes in unheated areas such as basements, garages, attics and crawlspaces.

• Locate the main water shut off for your home so that if a pipe bursts, you can shut off the water and minimize damage.

• Open cabinet doors in the kitchen and bathrooms to let heat in and around the plumbing.  Especially important if some of these pipes run up against outside walls. If you open cabinet doors, be sure to remove anything that may pose a safety hazard to children, such as household cleaners.

• Keep any garage doors closed if there are water pipes or supply lines in the garage.  If attached to home and safe, consider opening the door to the garage to allow some home heat to enter the garage. While your heating bill may take a hit, the cost will not compare to costly repairs from water damage.

• DO NOT use kerosene or other fuel fed heating devices in the garage to heat it.

• Let water drip from faucets served by exposed pipes. Running water through the pipe (even at a dribble) during a cold spell can often help prevent pipes from freezing.

• DO NOT use a blow torch or any other open flame to try and thaw out potentially frozen pipes! (did we really have to say this?!) 
• Mobile homes are typically more vulnerable to frozen pipes so take proper precautions. 

• Keep the thermostat set to no lower than 55° F during the evening hours or if you will be leaving the home for an extended period of time (day or night).  

Please check on elderly neighbors, family members and friends who may need additional assistance to ensure their safety during these challenging times. And always having working and up-to-date smoke alarms in your home. Visit us at www.mcfrs.org/mcsafe for more safety tips.

Stay informed. Sign up for Alert Montgomery. For information, visit https://alert.montgomerycountymd.gov/register.php

Space Heaters Need Space: Winter Fire Safety Tips for Your Home

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As winter temperatures drop, many households turn to space heaters for extra warmth. While they can quickly heat a chilly room, space heaters also pose serious risks. From December through March, home heating
fires — including those caused by space heaters — contribute to the highest number of fire deaths each year.

Residents throughout Montgomery County should be aware: space heaters are convenient, but they require careful use.

Here’s what you need to know to stay safe and smart this winter:

1. Give space heaters space. Keep at least three feet of clearance from anything flammable — clothes, blankets, furniture, rugs, and even walls. That open space is your first line of defense.

2. Plug it in safely. Always use a wall outlet. Never connect a space heater to an extension cord or power strip, which can overheat and spark a fire.

3. Choose quality. Look for heaters with Underwriter’s Laboratory (UL) approval and modern safety features like cool-to-touch surfaces, automatic shut-off if tipped over, or sensors that turn off the unit if something gets too close. Units with these features are especially important for homes with seniors, children, or pets.

4. Turn it off when unattended. Never leave a space heater running in an empty room. Always unplug it before leaving the room or going to bed. Extra blankets are a safer way to keep warm while you sleep.

5. Pick the right size. Match the heater to the room size. Too small, and it won’t provide warmth; too large, and it can overheat, increasing fire risk.

6. Check your home’s wiring. Space heaters use a lot of electricity — often as much as fifteen 100-watt light bulbs. Older homes with outdated wiring may not handle that load safely. If a circuit breaker trips, don’t just reset it without checking your home’s electrical system.

7. Keep away from water. Never use space heaters in bathrooms, kitchens, or areas where spills or moisture may occur. Water plus electricity is a dangerous combination.

8. Inspect regularly. Check cords for frays, keep vents free of dust, and ensure grates, grills, and heating elements are clean.

9. Mind the heat. Heater surfaces can become extremely hot. Seniors, children, and pets are especially vulnerable to burns, so place heaters in safe, supervised locations.

10. Supplement, don’t replace. Space heaters are meant to supplement central heating — not replace it. Make sure your home has working smoke alarms in every room and a carbon monoxide detector if using fuel-burning appliances.

A note on cost: Space heaters are convenient, but they can be expensive to run over time. Electricity use can spike dramatically, especially if multiple units are in use. Think of space heaters as a short-term solution for targeted warmth, not a replacement for central heating.

Bottom line: Space heaters can provide quick comfort during cold winter months, but safety comes first. Give them space, plug them in properly, monitor their use, and pair them with functional smoke and CO alarms. By taking these steps, families across Montgomery County can stay warm and safe this winter.