As we begin to wind down National Fire Prevention Week, don’t overlook outlets as a potential fire hazard.
Stuart Fire Chief Mike Renslow says if your home has several electronics, appliances or devices plugged into an outlet, try using a surge protector to prevent fires from starting due to being overheated. He describes what else people can do with outlets for holiday decorations.
“Just checking over your cords (and) making sure that they are good cords and having them (the decorations) on for a correct duration of time and not overdoing it and just leaving them on all the time. Make sure you also look over your Christmas tree and things of that nature, that’s a few months away yet. But keep an eye on things (and) make sure you’re doing it safely (and) it looks good and it’s safe for your family.”
He also recommends having your chimney inspected by a professional and get it cleared of debris before using it this winter.

