The winter car kit for Alaska roads
From the Glenn Highway to a grocery run on a dark January afternoon, a few things in the trunk make a stuck car a minor story instead of a bad night.
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Once the furnace runs every day and space heaters come out of the closet, a short checklist keeps the house warm without the risk.
Test every alarm
Press the test button on each smoke and carbon monoxide alarm. You need one on every level, outside each sleeping area and inside each bedroom. Replace any unit that is ten years old.
Give heaters space
Keep space heaters at least three feet from beds, curtains and furniture, plug them straight into the wall and never run them while you sleep. Choose models with tip-over and overheat shutoff.
Watch the wiring
Heaters, block heaters and holiday lights all put extra load on circuits. A plug-in electrical fire sensor can warn you about arcing before you would ever smell it.
Plan two ways out
Walk through your escape plan with the household. Upstairs bedrooms need a second exit, such as a window with an escape ladder stored next to it.
Keep a fire blanket by the stove
Grease fires are one of the most common causes of home fires. A fire blanket on a wall hook near the stove lets you smother a small pan fire in seconds.
These tips are general guidance. For safety equipment, always follow the manufacturer's instructions and local fire codes.
