As the entire state deals with the cold winter weather, State Fire Marshal William E. Barnard is cautioning residents when using alternative light and electrical sources during power outages. “These easy to follow tips will help all Marylanders avoid injury or death during power outages,” said the State Fire Marshal.
 
Use flashlights during power outages instead of candles. Keep plenty of fresh batteries on hand at all times.  
 
If using candles, make sure they are placed on a stable piece of furniture in sturdy holders that will not tip over.

  • Candles should fit in the holders securely and holders should be made of material that will not burn.  
  • Keep candles away from items that can catch fire such as; clothing, books, papers, curtains, combustible decorations or anything else that can burn.
  • Do not place candles where they can be knocked over by children or pets.  
  • Always extinguish all candles when leaving the room or before going to sleep.   
  • If you are depending on portable generators for electricity during power outages, use extreme caution when refueling. Fuel splashed on a hot muffler could ignite, causing severe burns and serious injuries.  
  • Never attempt to refuel a generator while it is running. Always allow the unit to cool before attempting to refuel.
  • Operate generators outside of the home and outside of garages, carbon monoxide gas produced by operating generators is poisonous and can quickly cause severe injury or death.


The State Fire Marshal offers one final tip that could well be the most important. “Make sure your home is equipped with working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. These devices are some of the most effective fire safety tools in preventing injury or death from fire and carbon monoxide,” according to State Fire Marshal Barnard.  

The Office of the State Fire Marshal is an agency of state government dedicated to helping protect Marylanders from fire and explosions through a comprehensive program of education, inspection and investigation. For other fire safety tips please contact the Office of the State Fire Marshal at 1-800-525-3124 or log on our website at: www.firemarshal.state.md.us.