North Carolina is expected to experience a period of extreme cold weather in the coming days, bringing dangerously low temperatures, ice, snow, and the potential for power outages across the state. The North Carolina Office of State Fire Marshal (OSFM) is urging residents to take steps now to prepare and stay safe.
“With freezing temperatures and the possibility of power disruptions, preparation isn’t optional — it’s essential,” said Brian Taylor, North Carolina State Fire Marshal. “When families start using alternative heating sources, the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisoning goes up. I want people to stay warm, but more importantly, I want them to stay alive and safe in their homes.”
Fire Dangers Increase During Colder Months
The winter season is one of the most dangerous times of year for residential fires. Heating equipment is the leading cause of home fires during colder months.
“When it’s cold outside, people naturally try to find ways to stay warm — but that’s when we see the most preventable fires,” Taylor said. “Space heaters placed too close to furniture, overloaded outlets, and unattended fireplaces can turn a cold night into a life-changing emergency.”
Fire safety tips for winter:
- Keep all heating equipment at least 3 feet away from anything that can burn
- Never leave space heaters unattended
- Plug space heaters directly into wall outlets — never extension cords
- Have chimneys and fireplaces cleaned and inspected annually
- Make sure smoke alarms are working on every level of your home
Prepare for Possible Power Outages
Residents should plan ahead in case electricity is lost:
- Keep flashlights, extra batteries, and fully charged power banks on hand
- Have a supply of food and water that does not require cooking
- Keep medications and medical devices charged when possible
- Check on elderly neighbors, family members, and those with special needs
Use Heating Sources Safely
Improper use of heating equipment is a leading cause of winter fires:
- Never use ovens, stoves, or grills to heat your home
- Turn off space heaters when you leave the room or go to sleep
- Keep heating devices away from curtains, bedding, and furniture
Protect Against Carbon Monoxide (CO)
Carbon monoxide is an invisible, odorless gas that can be deadly:
- Install carbon monoxide alarms on every level of your home and near sleeping areas
- Never use generators, grills, or propane heaters indoors or in garages
- Only use fuel-burning equipment approved for indoor use
- If your CO alarm sounds, get outside immediately and call 911
“Carbon monoxide doesn’t give you a warning smell or smoke — it just takes your breath away,” Taylor said. “A working CO alarm can be the difference between waking up and never waking up again.”
Stay Informed
Monitor local weather updates and emergency alerts, and follow guidance from state and local officials.
“Cold weather doesn’t have to be deadly,” Taylor said. “If people take these simple steps now, they can protect their families, their homes, and their lives."
Media Opportunity: To request an interview, please contact Shannon Bullock.
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