Indiana Michigan Power has launched a timely safety drive in Fort Wayne, Indiana, as cooler temperatures push more residents indoors for warmth. The company stresses simple steps to prevent fires and shocks from heating devices and power use, aiming to keep families safe through the cold months ahead.
Why Focus on Electrical Safety Now
Cooler weather means higher demand on home electricity for heating and lights, raising risks of overloads and accidents. Indiana Michigan Power notes that heating related fires spike in winter, with nearly half of all US home heating fires happening from December to February based on recent data. This push comes right as storms earlier this year left over 60,000 customers without power in March, highlighting the need for readiness.
Experts point out that frayed cords and improper setups cause many issues. In one recent case, a house fire in Leesburg on October 4 displaced three people due to a space heater plugged into an extension cord. Such events remind everyone that small habits can make a big difference in staying warm without danger.
Safe Use of Outlets and Circuits
Overloading outlets tops the list of common winter hazards as families plug in extra devices. Indiana Michigan Power advises checking cords for wear and keeping flammable items away from hot bulbs or outlets to avoid sparks.
Here are key steps to protect your home:
- Inspect all extension cords and plugs for fraying before use.
- Spread out high power items like lamps and chargers across multiple outlets.
- Use surge protectors to guard against sudden power jumps from storms.
Following these can cut risks sharply. One report shows that improper cord use leads to thousands of fires yearly, but simple checks prevent most.
Guidelines for Space Heaters and Blankets
Space heaters and electric blankets offer quick warmth but demand extra care to prevent burns or fires. The utility firm warns to keep these at least three feet from curtains, furniture, or beds, and never leave them on unattended.
Regular checks matter too. Look for damaged wires or worn spots, and unplug when not in use. Water nearby is a no go, as it can lead to shocks.
| Winter Heating Device | Common Risks | Prevention Steps |
|---|---|---|
| Space Heaters | Overheating, tipping over | Plug directly into wall, use on flat surfaces, turn off when leaving room |
| Electric Blankets | Fabric wear, overheating | Inspect for frayed edges, avoid folding while on, unplug at night |
| Extension Cords with Heaters | Melting, short circuits | Avoid using with high draw items, replace if warm to touch |
Data from safety groups shows two in five heater fire deaths tie to portable electric models. A quick inspection routine can save lives and property.
Smart Operation of Appliances and Generators
Appliances like fans and dryers pull more power in dry winter air, so clean exhaust vents to stop buildup that sparks fires. Unplug unused items and keep them dry to lower shock chances.
For outages, generators help but must run outside, far from windows to avoid carbon monoxide buildup. Connect devices straight to the unit, not through home wiring.
Indiana Michigan Power shares that gas powered models caused issues in past winters, like during the 2019 cold snap. Pros suggest testing alarms monthly and swapping batteries yearly for peace of mind.
Smoke Alarms and Broader Prep
Smoke alarms catch problems early, so test them often and replace units over ten years old. The company pushes yearly battery changes to ensure they work when needed most.
Tying into energy savings, smart thermostats and sealed vents help run systems efficiently, reducing strain. Recent campaigns note that well maintained homes use less power and face fewer risks.
This winter prep not only guards against fires but also cuts bills. With storms on the rise, linking to alert apps from the utility keeps you informed.
