01/31/2026
🔥 Public Safety Announcement: Winter Fire and Life Safety
As colder weather continues, Sevier County Fire-Rescue reminds residents to take extra precautions to stay warm while preventing fires, carbon monoxide exposure, and other winter-related hazards. Many winter fires and injuries are preventable by following a few important safety practices.
🔌 Heating Safety
• Keep portable heaters at least three feet away from anything that can burn, including furniture, curtains, bedding, and clothing
• Never leave space heaters unattended or operating while sleeping
• Plug heaters directly into wall outlets. Never use extension cords or power strips
• Turn heaters off when leaving the room or home
• Use only heating devices with automatic shut-off and tip-over protection
☠️ Carbon Monoxide Safety
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly.
• Install CO alarms on every level of your home and near sleeping areas
• Never use generators, grills, camp stoves, or propane heaters inside your home, garage, or near windows or doors
• Never use your oven or stovetop to heat your home
• If a CO alarm sounds or you experience symptoms such as headache, dizziness, nausea, or confusion, leave immediately and call 911
🔥 Fireplace and Chimney Safety
• Have fireplaces, wood stoves, and chimneys inspected and cleaned annually by a qualified professional
• Use a sturdy screen to prevent sparks from escaping
• Never leave a fire unattended
• Allow ashes to cool completely and place them in a metal container stored away from the home
🕯️ Candle Safety
• Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that can burn
• Never leave candles unattended or burning while sleeping
• Place candles on stable, heat-resistant surfaces
• Keep candles out of reach of children and pets
• Consider using battery-operated flameless candles as a safer alternative
❄️ Winter Weather Preparedness
Be prepared for power outages and winter storms by keeping:
• Flashlights and extra batteries
• A charged cell phone or backup power source
• Extra blankets and warm clothing
Avoid using open flames or heating appliances not designed for indoor use. Keep emergency numbers readily available.
🚒 In Case of Emergency
If you experience a fire, smell gas, or suspect carbon monoxide exposure, leave the building immediately and call 911 from a safe location.
The members of Sevier County Fire-Rescue encourage everyone to take these precautions seriously to protect lives, homes, and families throughout the winter season. A few simple steps can prevent tragedy.
Stay warm. Stay safe.
