Fire and carbon monoxide dangers rise as temperatures drop

Public safety officials are urging homeowners to take precautions this winter after two recent cold weather related accidents.

On Thursday, a Habersham County man was left homeless when fire broke out around the wood heater in his home. And in North Fulton County, a 25-year-old man was killed two days ago from carbon monoxide poisoning after a vehicle was left running in the garage.

Habersham County Emergency Services Director Chad Black says these few simple steps could help save your home and your life:

• Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, especially in sleeping rooms or directly outside sleeping rooms.
• Test smoke alarms every month. If they’re not working, change the batteries.
• Talk with family members about a fire escape plan and practice the plan twice a year.
• If a fire occurs in your home, GET OUT, STAY OUT, and CALL FOR HELP. Never go back inside for anything or anyone.
• Have a fire extinguisher and know how to use it.
• Keep flammable and all materials away from heating sources (fire places, electric, propane and kerosene heaters, etc.).
• Assure your gas heaters safety rules are followed, Carbon Monoxide can be produced as a byproduct of incomplete combustion and is a dangerous and deadly gas that is colorless, odorless and can kill very quickly if levels are elevated with any improper ventilation of the devices.