Health safety tips for winter

Make sure your fireplace, wood stoves or other combustion heaters are properly ventilated. According to the National Fire Protection Association, “Heating equipment was involved in an estimated 66,100 reported home structure fires in 2008, causing 480 civilian deaths, 1,660 civilian injuries, and $1.1 billion in direct property damage.”  (Abel Uribe/ Chicago Tribune)

NFPA reports that one out of every 21 Christmas tree fires results in a fatality. Although uncommon, most tree fires occur in January.  (John Dziekan/ Chicago Tribune)

Infants lose body heat more rapidly than adults. Make sure you have proper heating indoors and warm clothing for your children. Infants less than one year old should never be left in a cold room, and pillows are discouraged in order to avoid suffocation.  (Christine Cotter/Los Angeles Times)

Don’t leave candles unattended. In case of a power outage, always have flashlights with working batteries available. Lanterns are another option.  (Nuccio DiNuzzo/ Chicago Tribune)