January Peak Time for Home Fires, CO Poisonings

The winter cold has finally closed its grip on Northeast Ohio, and residents are cranking up their heating systems  in response.  Many do not realize, though, that this increased use of furnaces, hot water heaters, space heaters and fireplaces makes January one of the most dangerous months to home owners.

Home Fires

January is a peak month for home fires, largely due to the fact that heating sources are among the most common causes of fires.  Safety precautions will differ depending on the type of heating source you use, but individuals should be sure to keep heating units clear of clothing or other items and to have the units inspected on a regular basis.  Additionally, make sure that your home is equipped with a working smoke alarm at all times.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

January is also one of the leading months for carbon monoxide poisoning in the U.S., according to the National Fire Protection Association.  “When home heating equipment isn’t installed or working properly, the risk of higher levels of CO increases significantly.”  This is dangerous because carbon monoxide is undetectable to the senses and potentially lethal.  The NFPA has created a toolkit to help prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, strongly focusing on the use of carbon monoxide detectors in home and routine maintenance of fuel-burning appliances.

Defective Products and Home Fire or Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Injury or Death

Unfortunately, many wrongful deaths and personal injuries caused by home fires or carbon monoxide poisoning are preventable.  Each year, countless innocent victims are injured both by negligent manufacturers of faulty appliances and by the negligent repairs performed by careless maintenance technicians.   These costly missteps ruin lives and leave families reeling.

If you or a loved one have been injured, or a loved one has died, as the result of a home fire or carbon monoxide poisoning , contact the Cleveland trial attorneys at Lowe Scott Fisher Co., LPA for a free telephone consultation.