1. One of the most common problems is lint blocking the air openings to the burner. Keep the area clear and the air openings free of lint.
2. The family pet, Fido and Fluffy, love to sleep near the oil burner for the wonderful comfort of oil heat. But they also contribute to air passages being restricted. As much as you don't want to disturb your pet, don't let them sleep near the boiler, it is in your best interest as well as theirs.
3. Space in homes is valuable, but the boiler room is not the best place to store boxes and clothing. These items can become a fire hazard.
4. When was the last time the chimney was inspected by a chimney specialist? It is a good practice to have the oil flue of the chimney examined at least every five (5) years.
5. Going away on winter vacation? How lucky you are. But be sure to have someone checking in on your home to make sure all is ok. If you are lucky enough to enjoy a winter vacation, why not let our Heat Monitoring Package put your mind at ease. Click here for details.
6. You would not operate very well if you do not get sufficient air to breathe, would you? Well, with today's houses being insulated very well, (new windows, etc.), this is what is happening to the heating unit. There are systems designed today to operate efficiently in these circumstances.
7. Smoke detectors, heat detectors and CO2 detectors should be placed in every home. Change your batteries regularly.

Fire Prevention Tips

Every 57 seconds a fire threatens a home and family. You can reduce the danger of a fire by following these simple precautions in your home whenever possible.

Things to remember to reduce your risk:

• Don't overload your electrical circuits. This is one of the foremost cause of fires.
• Keep children out of reach of matches and lighters.
• Don't smoke in bed.
• Don't accumulate grease soaked rags or oil.
• Keep combustibles far from heat sources.
• Use a fire detection and/or smoke warning system in your home.
• Develop and review with your family an escape plan that has primary and alternative escape routes for each member with an outdoor meeting place a safe distance from your home. Call General or request a FREE copy of the publication "Your Fire Escape Plan from First Alert Professional" sponsored in part by the International Association of Fire Chiefs.

Poisoning Prevention Tips

Over 4 million people are poisoned in the United States every year.

How can I prevent poisonings in my home?

• Store all medicines and household products in the original containers.
• Use child-resistant packages for medicines and potentially dangerous household products.
• Lock medicines and products out of sight and reach of children.
• Follow product label warnings about not mixing different products, ventilating the area, or wearing gloves.

What are some dangerous household poisons?

• CLEANING PRODUCTS:
  • Regular household cleaning products are the major cause of unintentional poisonings of children.
  • Those that are especially dangerous are those that can cause chemical burns- drain opener, toilet bowl cleaner, laundry detergent.

• COSMETICS AND PERSONAL CARE PRODUCTS:
  • Permanent wave neutralizers and hair straightness can cause burns. Mouthwash contains alcohol, dangerous for children who drink it. Some nail care products can also be poisonous.

• PESTICIDES, INCLUDING LAWN AND GARDEN CHEMICALS:
  • Many chemicals used to control insects, rodents and weeds are as toxic to humans as they are to their intended victims. When ingested or inhaled in very small amounts, most are capable of producing illness.
• HOUSEHOLD AND AUTO MAINTENANCE SUPPLIES:
  • Antifreeze and windshield washer solution are dangerous to swallow and their sweet taste makes them appealing to children and pets.
• FOOD POISONING:
  • Food poisoning may be caused by storing food at the wrong temperature, not scrubbing knives, utensils and cutting boards after cutting raw meat and poultry, and not carefully washing hands before handling or preparing food. Symptoms of food poisoning may vary, but often include nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Symptoms may begin soon or may not occur for more than a day or two.
  • Follow these food safety tips:
    • Counter tops, utensils and hands should be washed with warm, soapy water prior to and after food preparation.
    • Thaw meat and poultry in the refrigerator, not at-room temperature.
    • Avoid leaving perishable food out of the refrigerator for more than two hours.
    • Do not use canned foods with bulging lids or cracks.
    • Thoroughly cook all meat, poultry, seafood and eggs.
• ALCOHOL:
  • Found in alcoholic beverages, mouthwash and perfume and aftershave lotions. Alcohol is a dangerous poison for children because small amounts can slow down their breathing and heart rate, cause seizures and coma, and even kill them. Watch children closely at adult parties and clear the "empty" glasses and cans immediately. Use child resistant closures on mouthwash bottles.
• PLANTS AND WILD MUSHROOMS:
  • Some indoor and outdoor plants can pose a hazard to curious youngsters. Berries and wild mushrooms pose the greatest outdoor hazards. Philodendron and Dieffenbachia are indoor plants that can cause pain and swelling in children and pets who nibble on them.
  • SEASON CHANGES AND HOLIDAYS bring a variety of potential poisons. Be alert around Easter and Halloween because chocolate candy is poisonous to dogs. Before allowing children to indulge in Halloween "treats" inspect them to be sure that wrappers are intact. Discard non-commercial treats, fruits, homemade goods, etc. During winter holidays avoid decorating with holly or mistletoe berries.