Why is the number of fires increasing in winter?

There are several main reasons:

- Unsafe use of stove heating: Stoves and fireplaces, which many use for additional heating, require special attention. Non-compliance with operating rules, lack of proper seasonal preparation, and chimney damage are frequent causes of fires.

- Violation of fire safety rules when smoking: In cold weather, the desire to smoke "without going out into the cold" can lead to tragedy. Smoking in bed, especially while intoxicated, is one of the most common causes of fatal fires.

- Electrical network overload: With the onset of cold weather, we use electric heaters more actively and turn on more household appliances. This creates an increased load on the electrical wiring, which may not withstand it, leading to a short circuit and ignition.

- Malfunction of electrical appliances: Old or low-quality heaters, improperly connected extension cords, damaged insulation – all these are potential sources of fire.

Prevention is the key to safety:

To ensure the heating season is not overshadowed by disaster, it is necessary to take a number of precautionary measures:

1. Stove heating safety:

- Seasonal preparation: The stove must be thoroughly inspected and prepared for the heating season. Check the integrity of the firebox door, and the presence and operability of the chimney damper.

- Hearth mat: A non-combustible metal sheet of at least 70x50 cm must be attached in front of the firebox door. It will prevent ignition from accidentally dropped embers.

- Timely repairs: If cracks are found in the stove or chimney, they must be immediately sealed. Whitewashing the stove will help detect minor damage by black soot.

- Chimney cleaning: Regularly clean the chimney of soot, which can cause a "chimney fire".

2. Electrical safety:

- Check wiring: Before actively using electric heaters, ensure that the electrical wiring, sockets, and switches are in good working order. Do not allow them to overheat.

- Modern appliances: Use only serviceable, certified heaters. Do not attempt to repair them yourself; entrust this to specialists.

- Proper use: Do not leave heaters on unattended, especially at night. Keep them at a safe distance from furniture, curtains, and other flammable materials. Do not dry clothes on them.

- Avoid overloading: Do not plug in too many high-power appliances simultaneously. Use extension cords and surge protectors with appropriate ratings.

- When leaving home: Always unplug all electrical appliances from the mains.

3. Dangers of smoking and alcohol:

- Never smoke in bed: This is deadly, especially if you have consumed alcohol. Intoxication dulls the sense of danger, and the consequences can be irreversible.

- Safe Smoking Area: If you smoke, do so in designated and safe areas, away from living spaces and flammable materials.

- Thorough Extinguishing: Always ensure that cigarettes or matches are completely extinguished.

4. Standalone Smoke Detector (SSD) – Your Primary Protector:

- Life-Saving: Installing a standalone smoke detector is the most effective way to protect yourself and your family. This small device, costing only a few rubles, can provide timely notification of smoke with a loud alarm, giving precious minutes for evacuation.
 
To avoid hypothermia and injuries, follow these recommendations:

1. How to Dress (The "Layering" Rule)

- Three Layers: Dress like an "onion." The first layer is thermal underwear or synthetics (wicks away moisture), the second is wool or fleece (retains heat), and the third is a windproof jacket.

- Loose Clothing: Clothing should not restrict movement or fit too tightly – an air layer between the layers retains heat best.

- Extremity Protection: Wear mittens instead of gloves (fingers warm each other). Shoes should be one size larger to accommodate a warm sock and allow for air circulation.

- Head and Face: Be sure to wear a hat (up to 50% of body heat can be lost through the head). A scarf can cover the nose, but ensure it does not become damp from breathing, as this can lead to frostbite.

2. Rules for Behavior Outdoors

- Breathe Through Your Nose: This allows the air to warm up slightly before entering your lungs.

- Keep Moving: If you are waiting for transportation, do not stand still – wiggle your toes, do some light exercises.

- Remove Metal: Metal jewelry (rings, earrings) cools down quickly and can cause localized frostbite on the skin.

- Watch your face: if you notice that your interlocutor's nose, cheeks, or ears have turned pale, this is the first sign of frostbite. You need to go inside to a warm place immediately.

3. What NOT to do

- Do not consume alcohol: alcohol creates an illusion of warmth by dilating blood vessels, which leads to even faster body temperature loss. Moreover, in a state of intoxication, it is difficult to notice the signs of frostbite.
- Do not smoke: smoking constricts blood vessels and impairs blood circulation in the extremities, making them more vulnerable to cold.
- Do not rub with snow: if the skin is frostbitten, rubbing it with snow or a rough cloth will damage the affected capillaries and can introduce infection.

4. Nutrition and Routine

- Eat heartily: before going out into the cold, the body needs energy for heating. Prefer hot and high-calorie food.

- Drink hot beverages: tea, fruit drink, or broth will help you warm up from the inside.
- Use cream: apply a protective nourishing cream to your face 30-40 minutes before going out (do not use a water-based moisturizing cream immediately before going out).

5. First Aid for Hypothermia

- Go into a warm room.

- Change into dry clothes, wrap yourself in a blanket.

- Drink a warm (not hot!) sweet beverage.

- Important: warming should be gradual. Do not jump into a hot bath or lean against a radiator immediately.

Winter is a beautiful time of year if you meet it fully prepared. Be vigilant, monitor the condition of your home, and listen to your body's signals. May your home always remain a fortress, warm, cozy, and absolutely safe.

"Ministry of Emergency Situations of the Republic of Belarus"