The extreme cold weather is raising concerns about the potential for fire hazards.
Salem Assistant Fire Chief Bill Fulton says some of the bigger concerns are overheated furnaces and space heaters.
“The biggest thing is we are overtaxing our heating systems with the extremely cold weather. Some people choose to put in an added space heater to supplement the heat. If they do that, they need to be three feet around the space heater. Don’t have more than one space heater plugged in per outlet. Make sure to turn it off when you leave the room or when you go to bed.”
Fulton says heat tape can also pose a problem.
“Make sure the wrap is in good condition. Make sure there hasn’t been any damage from rodents or that type of thing that could cause it to short out.”
And a short in the heat tape could lead to a fire.
The National Weather Service is recommending those who travel during the extreme cold pack some blankets in case they get stranded. If you’re outside, take frequent breaks indoors as frostbite can occur in as little as 15 to 30 minutes if your skin is exposed to the extremely cold air.
Water companies are recommending you let your water faucets drip during the extreme cold to avoid pipes freezing.
