Miami-Dade Fire Rescue Safety Tips for Cold Front in South Florida

Cold Weather Safety Precautions

• 💡 Space heaters should be kept at least 3 feet away from flammable materials like bedding and curtains.
• ⚠️ Never plug space heaters into extension cords or power strips; plug them directly into wall outlets.
• 🔥 Turn off all heaters before leaving your home or going to bed.

Fire and Carbon Monoxide Prevention

• 🕯️ Never leave a fireplace or candle unattended, and keep them away from flammable items and out of reach of children and pets.
• 🔋 Consider using battery-operated candles as a safer alternative.
• 🚗 Do not warm your car in a closed garage to prevent deadly carbon monoxide buildup.
• 🏠 Ensure your home has working carbon monoxide alarms.
• 🍳 Never use generators, charcoal grills, or gas ovens to heat your home, and always have working smoke alarms.

Protecting Vulnerable Individuals and Pets

• 🐾 Bring pets indoors on cold nights or provide them with a warm, dry shelter if they must remain outdoors.
• 👵 Check on elderly neighbors or those with special needs, as cold weather can be particularly dangerous for them.
• 👶 Cold weather poses risks to seniors, young children, people with medical conditions, and individuals without adequate heating.

Dressing for the Cold and Vehicle Safety

• 🧥 Wear layers of clothing to stay warm, especially during early mornings and late evenings, as Florida cold can feel more intense due to humidity.
• 🚗 Check your tire pressure regularly, as cold weather can cause it to drop.