Whether you've been together for three months or several decades, Valentine's Day is the perfect opportunity to spoil the one you love. If you're skipping the fancy restaurant to plan the perfect evening at home, The Wentzville Fire Protection District encourages you to keep fire prevention at the top of your mind. Follow these important safety precautions to ensure you spark romance this Valentine's Day, not fire.
Cook with Caution to Avoid a Kitchen Fire
People say food is the way to the heart. And there is much to love about eating a romantic meal at home. You can dress up if you want or wear sweatpants and end the night watching Netflix on the sofa. And, of course, cooking together can be super romantic. But before creating fun memories in the kitchen, remember to cook with caution.
Be on alert. If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol, don't use the stove or stovetop.
Stay in the kitchen while frying, boiling, grilling, or broiling food. If you leave the kitchen quickly, turn off the stove.
Keep anything that can catch fire - oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels, or curtains - away from your stovetop.
Use Candles Safely When Setting the Mood
Candles smell lovely and can set the mood for romance, but according to the National Fire Protection Association, burning candles are a cause of home fires and deaths. Follow these candle safety tips to avoid danger all year long.
Don't leave a burning candle unattended.
Blow out all candles before going to bed.
Avoid burning candles in bedrooms and where people sleep.
Use sturdy candle holders that will not easily tip over.
Keep candles at least 12 or so inches from anything flammable.
Responsibly Use Mylar Balloons
Heart Shaped mylar balloons are fun but can become a public safety risk if not used responsibly. Many people don't realize that these popular metallic balloons float away each year and bump into power lines causing explosions and electrical outages! If mylar balloons will be part of your Valentine's Day decor, follow these safety precautions:
Keep balloons indoors.
Tie weights to the balloons to keep them from floating away.
Deflate metallic balloons before putting them in the trash.
Protecting the people you care about is a great expression of love. As you think about all the ways to celebrate Valentine's Day at home, The Wentzville Fire Protection District reminds you to keep these fire safety tips close to your heart and mind!
About the Author
Wentzville Fire District is one of the largest fire districts in St. Charles County, covering 88 square miles. The fire district is commited to serving and protecting our community through the highest quality of fire protection, prevention, education, and community outreach.