Safe through the heating season: warnings and tips from the fire brigade Amstetten

Safe through the heating season: warnings and tips from the fire brigade Amstetten

In Amstetten, the local fire brigade authorities have given a serious warning signal. With the start of the heating season, the risk of carbon monoxide and fire accidents is particularly high. Stefan Schaub, the commander of the Amstetten-Stadt section fire brigade, emphasizes how important it is to keep heating in a perfect condition. Autumn brings provisional heating and restarting existing systems, which requires special precautions. A central point is the correct pull in smoke; A lack of train can lead to dangerous flue gases get into the living room.

carbon monoxide, also called CO, is an insidious gas that is odorless and invisible. It arises in incomplete combustion and can get into the living area if there is inadequate ventilation. "In private living space, old or inadequate heating systems are a risk," explains Schaub. It should be ensured that facilities such as gas boilers and fireplaces are serviced regularly to minimize the risk of a carbon monoxide elementary source.

sources of danger in the household

continued to emphasize that some everyday objects can also lead to co-poisoning. "Especially when using charcoal grills or shishas in closed rooms, there is a risk. Even heating fungi and other heat sources that are not well ventilated can become problematic," he warns. Cars and lawnmowers that are operated in garages without sufficient air circulation are also a serious danger.

Another, often overlooked risk are wood pellets. Schaub explains: "In certain conditions, the resin components of the pellets can release carbon monoxide. Factors such as room temperature and the freshness of the pellets play a decisive role. In particular, freshly delivered, moist pellets that are stored in warm rooms can lead to a dangerous co-concentration." This problem is often underestimated, but can become life -threatening in the cold season.

The focus on safety goes beyond monitoring the heating systems. The fire brigade is also urgently advising to install smoke alarms and co-measuring devices in living rooms. "Why is that important? Because smoke detectors can save lives in an emergency," emphasizes Stockinger, who supports the show. In new buildings, the devices are already mandatory, but in old buildings there is often still a lack of basic safety precautions. Austria has to complain about high numbers of CO patterns again and again during the heating season.

guidelines in the event of a fire

show also provides important advice in the event of a fire. "First alert the fire brigade and leave the building calmly," he recommends. In the case of smoky corridors, it is safer to stay in the apartment and close doors between yourself and the fire room. The warning of the neighbors is also essential to avoid unnecessary searches. "Start deleting when it is possible, but do not risk your life. Every thing is replaceable," he recalls.

Older people are particularly at risk. The statistics show that the average age for fire victims in Austria is around 65 years old. Stockinger emphasizes that many seniors often light candles, which, in combination with restricted perception and motor skills, can lead to dangerous situations. "The sources of danger are extremely diverse - from burning cigarettes to unattended cooking processes," he adds.

for interested parties training courses for senior citizens and pensioners' associations to clarify prevention and safe behaviors. If you want to learn more about the dangers of the heating season and prevention measures, please feel free to contact the fire brigade; Your consultations are expressly recommended. Reporting is also available for detailed information. reports .