Central Alabama Freeze: Safe Heating Tips from Homewood Fire Department

0:00This is Birmingham News Today, every story, every city, every day. A freeze warning covers every county in Central Alabama until 10 a.m. Tuesday, with overnight lows dipping to between 28 and 32 degrees. As folks scramble to stay warm, the Homewood Fire Department is stressing safe heating to prevent house fires. The quick drop in temperatures from the 70s to the 40s has caught many residents by surprise. Our chief Brandon Broadhead says people often rush to heat their homes using risky methods instead of sticking to approved central heat. Residents are turning to space heaters and other quick fixes, but these can spark dangerous fires. Broadhead notes that improper use leads to most incidents during cold snaps. For space heaters, only buy ones with an underwriters' laboratories or UL rating sticker and skip cheap online knockoffs that don't meet U.S. safety. Always test the tip over switch by plugging it in and tipping it if it doesn't shut off right away, toss it.

1:00Chief Broadhead also warns against using ovens or stoves to heat rooms as they risk igniting nearby items in leaking carbon monoxide. Stick to proven methods, keep flammables away from heaters and stay safe this winter. This episode is supported by our sponsor, see details in the description. When you want calm, do not reach for your phone, lay back and listen, S-O-L-I-SOL-PILLOW.com.