Submitted by Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection
(February 3, 2026) — As Connecticut continues to face a prolonged cold spell with dangerously low temperatures and wind chills, the Connecticut Division of Fire Services Administration is urging residents to prepare safely and avoid preventable emergencies.
“Extreme cold puts added stress on home heating systems and fuel-burning devices. If you’re going to heat your home with alternative sources or use backup power equipment, do it right. Fire and carbon monoxide incidents are preventable when people take simple, basic safety steps,” said State Fire Administrator Jeff Morissette.
Fire Safety:
- Keep anything that can burn at least three feet away from space heaters.
- Never leave fuel-burning heaters running unattended or overnight.
- Have furnaces and wood stoves inspected and cleaned before heavy use.
- Never use extension cords for portable or space heaters. Always plug directly into an outlet
- Use fireplaces properly and never leave them unattended.
- If snow blocks vents or chimneys, clear them safely — don’t use flames to thaw ice or snow.
Carbon Monoxide Safety:
- Never use generators, grills, or camp stoves indoors, including garages and basements.
- Place generators at least 20 feet from your home with exhaust pointed away from windows and doors.
- Install CO detectors on every level of your home and near sleeping areas. Test them now.
- Keep dryer vents, furnace exhausts, and vehicle tailpipes clear of snow and ice.
- If anyone experiences headache, nausea, dizziness or confusion, get fresh air immediately and seek medical attention.
“In cold weather we see a predictable uptick in house fires and CO emergencies. This isn’t alarmism. It’s history. Clear vents, use detectors, keep heat sources away from combustibles, and never operate outdoor equipment inside. Your family’s safety depends on it,” said Director of Training PJ Norwood.
Remember:
- Prepare your home safely. Test CO and smoke detectors today.
- Don’t improvise with heat. Know the risks of heaters and generators.
- Be vigilant. Cold weather hazards last days, not hours.
