STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  —  The Staten Island Board of Realtors (SIBOR) wants to remind everyone about the importance of vigilance when it comes to prevent fires.

More fires occur during the winter months than at any other time. Fortunately, taking simple precautions can prevent most fires. Follow the safety tips below from USA.gov to help ensure your safety:

Portable Heaters

  • Put at least three feet of empty space between the heater and everything else.
  • Vacuum and clean the dust and lint from all heaters.
  • If the cord gets hot, frayed or cracked, have the heater serviced.
  • Never use extension cords with portable electric heaters.
  • Turn off portable heaters when leaving or sleeping.
  • An adult should always be present when anyone is using a space heater around children.
  • Make sure your portable electric heater is UL approved and has a tip-over shut off function.

    • Woodstove and Fireplace Safety

    • Have a certified chimney sweep clean and inspect your fireplace.
    • Place ashes outdoors in a covered metal container at least three feet away from anything that burns.
    • To prevent flue fires, burn dry, well-seasoned wood.
    • Always use a fireplace screen made of sturdy metal or heat-tempered glass. If children are present, use a special child-guard screen.

    Generators
    Carbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible killer. You cannot see or smell it. A generator’s exhaust contains poisonous CO, which can kill you in a matter of minutes. Follow these important generator safety tips:

    • Never use a portable generator inside a home, garage, shed or other partially enclosed space, even if doors and windows are open.
    • Place portable generators outside only, far away from the home. Keep the generator away from openings to the home, including doors, windows, and vents.
    • Read the label on the generator and the owner’s manual, and follow the instructions.
    • Install CO alarms with battery backup in the home outside each sleeping area.
    • Get to fresh air immediately if you start to feel sick, weak or dizzy. CO poisoning from exposure to generator exhaust can quickly lead to incapacitation and death.
    • Be sure generator fuel is properly and safely stored.
    • Always refuel the generator outdoors and away from any ignition sources.
    • If you choose to have a generator permanently connected to your home’s electrical system, make sure a licensed electrician installs it and be sure to notify your electric company.

    Candles

    • Place candles in sturdy, fireproof candleholders where they cannot be knocked over.
    • Make sure all candles are out before going to bed or leaving the house.
    • Keep candles, matches, and lighters out of children’s reach.
    • Keep candles away from Christmas trees, evergreen clippings, decorations, presents, and wrapping paper.

    Smoke Alarms and Home Escape Plans

    • Install smoke alarms outside each sleeping area and in each bedroom.
    • Test and vacuum your smoke alarms each month to make sure they are working.
    • Smoke alarms 10 years old or older need to be replaced with new units.
    • Know two ways out of every room.
    • Practice your escape plan with your whole family at least twice a year.
    • Do not attempt to go back into a burning home.

    Additional Resources:

    About The Staten Island Board of REALTORS® (SIBOR)

    The Staten Island Board of REALTORS® (SIBOR) is the largest not-for-profit trade association in Staten Island, N.Y.

    SIBOR exists to enhance the ability and opportunity of its members to conduct their business successfully and ethically; and to promote the preservation of the public’s right to own, transfer and use real property.

    Comprised of over 1,600 members, SIBOR serves real estate agents, brokers and affiliated professionals throughout the borough and surrounding areas.

    SIBOR is the provider of the Staten Island Multiple Listing Service Inc. (SIMLS), which works as a clearinghouse through which more than 250 local real estate firms exchange information on properties they have listed for sale. Together, its members participate in over 3,000 real estate transactions every year.

    All SIBOR members belong to the New York State Association of REALTORS® (NYSAR) and the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR).

    SIBOR may be reached at 718-928-3220 and viewed online at http://siborrealtors.com. SIBOR may also be visited on Facebook at “Staten Island Living,” on Twitter via @SIBOR, and on YouTube at the Staten Island Board of Realtors and RelevantPR channels.

    Media Contact: Barton Horowitz

    Relevant Public Relations, LLC

    Headquarters: 718‑682‑1509

    Mobile: 917‑715‑8761

    Email: [email protected]