Winter Storm Safety Tips to Prevent Home Fires

Fire Claims Recovery
Jan 25
3 min read

Winter storms bring cold temperatures that push homeowners and businesses to rely heavily on heaters, fireplaces, and kitchen appliances. While these devices provide much-needed warmth and comfort, they also increase the risk of fires. Each year, fire departments respond to a surge in residential and commercial fires during cold weather months. Understanding why winter storms raise fire hazards and knowing how to prevent them can protect your property and loved ones.

!Eye-level view of a space heater placed safely on a hardwood floor with clear space around it

Why Winter Storms Increase Fire Risks

Cold weather changes how people use heating and cooking devices, creating predictable but often overlooked fire hazards. Here are the main reasons winter storms lead to more fires:

Heavy Use of Space Heaters

Space heaters are a common source of heat during winter storms but also one of the leading causes of cold-season fires. Many fires happen because of:

Placing heaters too close to furniture, curtains, or bedding
Overloading electrical outlets or using unsafe extension cords
Leaving heaters running unattended or overnight
Using older heaters without automatic shut-off features

Safety tip: Always keep at least three feet of clearance around space heaters. Plug them directly into wall outlets, not power strips or extension cords, to avoid electrical overload.

Increased Cooking Activity

Winter storms often keep families indoors, leading to more cooking at home. People may also use stovetops for heat or hot water, which raises fire risks through:

Unattended cooking, especially frying or grilling
Grease flare-ups that ignite quickly
Using stoves improperly for heating purposes

Cooking is the leading cause of residential fires in the U.S., and winter storms amplify this risk by increasing the time spent in the kitchen.

Use of Fireplaces and Wood-Burning Stoves

Fireplaces and wood stoves provide cozy warmth but introduce specific hazards:

Creosote buildup inside chimneys can ignite chimney fires
Sparks from open fireplaces can land on rugs or furniture
Storing firewood indoors near heat sources increases fire risk
Neglecting chimney cleaning or inspections allows dangerous blockages

Chimney fires can spread quickly through attic spaces before anyone notices, causing severe damage.

Portable Generators and Alternative Heat Sources

Power outages during winter storms often lead property owners to use portable generators, propane burners, charcoal grills, or other unvented combustion devices. These pose risks such as:

Carbon monoxide poisoning from improper ventilation
Fire hazards when placed too close to walls or inside garages
Accidental ignition of nearby flammable materials

Generators should always be used outdoors, away from windows and doors, to prevent deadly fumes and fire hazards.

Practical Steps to Prevent Winter Storm Fires

Taking simple precautions can significantly reduce the chance of fire during winter storms. Here is a checklist for property owners:

Clean chimneys and flues before the cold season to remove creosote and debris.
Inspect heating devices for damage or wear and replace faulty parts.
Maintain safe distances around space heaters and fireplaces.
Never leave cooking unattended and keep flammable items away from stovetops.
Use generators outdoors and follow manufacturer instructions carefully.
Install smoke detectors on every level of your home and test them monthly.
Keep a fire extinguisher accessible in the kitchen and near heating equipment.
Educate family members about fire safety and emergency evacuation plans.