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Hot Tips for Cold Weather

BIG BEAR LAKE, CALIF/November 7, 2019 – Big Bear Fire Department has some “Hot Tips for Cold Weather” to ensure safe winter heating. With the change in seasons in Big Bear Valley comes the need to warm our homes and businesses. Stay warm and safe during the winter months by following some simple tips.

Conventional Heating: Have a professional check and service your heating system each year. Always keep combustibles away from heat sources. Check the manufacturer’s specifications for clearance distances.

Portable Heaters: Purchase only those heaters bearing the seal of Underwriters Laboratory (UL), Factory Mutual (FM) or another nationally recognized testing laboratory. Always use heating appliances according to manufacturer’s specifications. Make sure electric cords are in good condition. Never leave a portable heater on when unattended and never use an oven to heat your home; it can deplete the oxygen level.

Wood-Burning Stoves, Fireplaces, and Fireplace Inserts: Burn only dry, well-seasoned wood. Make sure the damper is open prior to lighting. Never use flammable liquids or excessive amounts of paper to start or accelerate a fire. Keep a metal or glass screen in front of fireplace or stove openings and never leave a fire unattended. Have wood-burning stoves or fireplaces inspected and cleaned by a professional on an annual basis.

Smoke Detectors: Install and regularly maintain smoke detectors in the home per manufacturer’s instructions. Smoke detectors should provide coverage of sleeping areas and each level of the home. Test smoke detectors on a monthly basis and change the batteries twice a year. A good reminder is to do it when the time changes in the fall and spring.

Single-Family Residence Damaged

FAWNSKIN, CA/October 25, 2019– A residential structure fire was reported on Canyon Road in Fawnskin at approximately 8:51 a.m., on Friday, October 25, 2019. Upon arrival, fire crews observed a two-story, single-family home with fire and smoke coming from the right side of the residence. The fire started in the workshop attached to the home. Crews were able to confine the fire to the workshop. Through a swift fire attack, knock-down was obtained within approximately 5 minutes of crew arrival. There were two occupants reported at home at the time and exited the property safely.

San Bernardino County Fire’s Medic Engine 96 out of Fawnskin was first on-scene. Big Bear Fire Department’s Interim Battalion Chief Luke Wagner took command of the incident upon arrival and retained command through duration of the incident. The fire attack was a coordinated effort with San Bernardino County Fire Medic Engine 96, Big Bear Fire Department Engines 281 and 282, and the crew from Big Bear Fire Department Medic Ambulance 282. A CAL FIRE engine was also assisted crews with suppression efforts. The US Forest Service was on-scene to assure there was no threat to nearby vegetation. Cause of the fire is under investigation by San Bernardino County Fire.