As the weather cools down in the charming St. Cloud community of Osceola County, residents eagerly embrace the opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities, gather around bonfires, and cozy up indoors. However, with the drop in temperature, it’s crucial to remain vigilant about safety. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience during the cooler season, City of St. Cloud Public Information Officer Andrew Sullivan, along with St. Cloud Fire Rescue, is providing essential tips and guidelines for residents to follow.

Safety Tips for Cooler Days and Nights

  1. Fire Safety Around the Home:
    • Ensure your heating sources, such as fireplaces, heaters, and furnaces, are well-maintained and free from any hazards. Have them inspected regularly.
    • Use space heaters with caution, keeping them away from flammable materials, curtains, and furniture.
    • Always supervise open flames, such as candles or fire pits, and extinguish them before leaving the area or going to bed.
    • Keep a fire extinguisher readily available and ensure household members know how to use it.
  2. Carbon Monoxide Awareness:
    • Install carbon monoxide detectors in your home, especially near sleeping areas.
    • Never use a gas stove or oven to heat your home.
    • Regularly check and maintain gas appliances to prevent carbon monoxide leaks.
  3. Outdoor Safety:
    • When using outdoor heaters or fire pits, ensure they are placed on stable ground, away from combustible materials, and under supervision.
    • Dress appropriately for the weather to avoid hypothermia or frostbite. Layer clothing and cover exposed skin when temperatures drop.
  4. Driving Precautions:
    • Check your vehicle’s heating system before colder weather sets in.
    • Keep an emergency kit in your car, including blankets, water, snacks, and a flashlight, in case of breakdowns or cold-weather emergencies.

Dos and Don’ts from St. Cloud Fire Rescue and Public Information Officer Andrew Sullivan:

Dos:

  • Do have working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors installed in your home.
  • Do create and practice a fire escape plan with your family.
  • Do ensure fireplaces and chimneys are cleaned and inspected annually by professionals.
  • Do stay informed about weather updates and cold-weather advisories.

Don’ts:

  • Don’t leave space heaters unattended or operating overnight.
  • Don’t use charcoal or gas grills indoors for heating purposes.
  • Don’t overload electrical circuits with heaters or other appliances.
  • Don’t attempt to warm up your car in enclosed spaces, like a garage, to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.

Public Information Officer Andrew Sullivan emphasizes, “When temperatures  dip and we look to stay warm, let’s do so safely. Whether it’s heating, eating, or decorating our homes, lets’s follow these tips to enjoy the most out of cool Florida weather and the company of friends and family during the holiday season.”

St. Cloud Fire Rescue urges community members to prioritize safety during the cooler days and nights, fostering an environment where everyone can enjoy the season without compromising their well-being. By following these essential safety tips and guidelines, residents can relish the beauty of St. Cloud’s winter while safeguarding their homes and loved ones.

Stay warm, stay safe, and enjoy the winter season responsibly in Osceola County’s beautiful St. Cloud community!

For more information about the St. Cloud Fire Rescue Department, visit the City of St. Cloud website here, or follow them on Facebook, Instagram, or X (formerly known as Twitter).