Sunset Harbor Zion Hill Fire Department Shares Winter Fire Safety Reminder as Temperatures Chill

SUNSET HARBOR, NC — With cooler weather arriving across southeastern North Carolina, the Sunset Harbor Zion Hill Fire Department is reminding residents that winter heating season brings an increased risk of residential fires and carbon monoxide emergencies.

Fire officials are encouraging families to take simple precautions now to help keep homes safe throughout the colder months. The department notes that space heaters, fireplaces, wood stoves and other heating equipment can create fire hazards if not used properly.

Among the department’s key recommendations is maintaining at least three feet of clearance around space heaters and keeping them away from furniture, curtains, bedding and other combustible materials. Residents should also turn heaters off when leaving a room or before going to bed.

Fireplace and chimney maintenance remains another important safety measure. Officials recommend having heating equipment and chimneys inspected and cleaned annually by a qualified professional before heavy winter use.

The department is also urging homeowners to check smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Smoke alarms should be installed on every level of a home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas, while carbon monoxide alarms should be located near sleeping areas and throughout the residence. Both should be tested regularly to ensure they are functioning properly.

Residents are reminded never to operate generators, grills or outdoor heating devices inside homes, garages or enclosed spaces due to the danger of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Electrical safety is equally important during the winter months. Space heaters should be plugged directly into wall outlets and never into extension cords or power strips, which can overheat and increase the risk of fire.

Firefighters also encourage families to create and practice a home escape plan. Every household should know two ways out of each room and establish a designated meeting place outside in the event of an emergency.

The department emphasized that fires can spread rapidly once they begin, making early warning systems and prepared escape plans critical components of home safety.

As winter approaches, the men and women of the Sunset Harbor Zion Hill Fire Department are asking residents to take a few extra minutes to review fire safety practices and help protect their homes, families and neighbors.

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