With the onset of cold weather, the autumn-winter fire hazard period also begins.

Statistics indicate that the largest number of fires during this period occurs in residential buildings.

With the onset of cold weather, the autumn-winter fire hazard period also begins. Statistics indicate that the largest number of fires during this period occurs in residential buildings. During these fires, the most people are killed and injured. Due to faulty heating stoves and violation of the rules for operating stoves, heat-generating units and devices, 2 fires occurred in 2014, 3 fires in 2015, and 1 fire in 2016.

On June 12, 2015, in Lepel, Dzerzhinsky Street, a residential house fire occurred. As a result of the fire in a 3x4 meter kitchen, the ceiling, property, and walls were damaged. The cause of the fire was the violation of the rules for operating stoves, heat-generating units and devices (drying laundry near the stove).

Before the start of the heating season, all stoves and other heating appliances must be thoroughly inspected and repaired. If there are cracks or gaps in the masonry, they must be carefully sealed with clay. Chimneys within the attic should be whitewashed, so that when black streaks appear, cracks on them can be easily detected and eliminated. Under no circumstances should lit stoves be left unattended, nor should they be entrusted to young children. In severe frosts, to avoid overheating of stoves, it is recommended to heat them twice a day with an interval. It is dangerous to place firewood and other flammable items near the doors of a lit stove, to hang laundry and clothes nearby for drying, or to leave the stove with the door open unattended. When lighting a stove, flammable and combustible liquids should not be used. Chimneys should be cleaned regularly, once every two months, as a large amount of soot accumulates on their walls. The process of its combustion is accompanied by high temperatures and the formation of sparks flying out of the chimney, which often leads to a fire. When removing hot ash from stoves, it should be poured into a pit located away from buildings, after extinguishing it with water, sand or snow.

As sub-zero temperatures set in, the number of electric heaters connected to the grid increases, and consequently, the load on electrical wiring. In some cases, due to natural aging, as well as prolonged periods of overload, insulation breakdown and short circuits in electrical wiring occur, leading to fires. It is no secret that electrical wiring in many residential buildings, especially older ones, is far from ideal condition, which can lead to a fire.

Another common cause of fires is the violation of fire safety rules when operating domestic electric heating appliances. Homemade electric heaters are particularly dangerous. If there are children and elderly people in the house, it is better to purchase closed-type electric heaters. If you are using outdated heater models, be especially careful, and do not allow sparking of the cord or overheating of the plugs.

Remember, by observing fire safety rules, you are taking care of your own safety.