Firefighters offer some recommendations for staying warm safely at home.

PalmMallorca firefighters issued recommendations on Thursday for staying warm at home safely as temperatures drop. Given this adverse weather pattern, which could bring snow to the Tramuntana mountain range, experts are warning of an increased risk of house fires and reinforcing their winter campaign with recommendations for the safe use of heating systems. The fire department reminds residents that the autumn and winter months traditionally see the highest number of house fires, especially with the increased use of fireplaces, braziers, and stoves. According to data compiled by the firefighters, 2024 was the year with the most house fires in Mallorca since records began, with 502 incidents, surpassing the 484 in 2023, the 478 in 2022, and the 452 in 2021. Furthermore, in 2024, there were five fatalities in Mallorca due to house fires. This highlights the need to take extra precautions, especially among the most vulnerable groups such as the elderly and children.

"With the intense cold expected in the coming days, many households will likely start lighting fireplaces and braziers. Misuse or lack of maintenance can lead to very serious incidents, but most can be avoided with a few simple safety measures," explains Joan Fornàs, the Island Director of Emergencies for the Consell de Mallorca. In this regard, the Fire Department emphasizes that prevention is essential to avoid incidents during the colder months. "A safe fireplace is a fireplace that is used and maintained properly," the Mallorca Fire Department stresses. With the sudden change in weather and the activation of adverse weather warnings by AEMET (the Spanish State Meteorological Agency), the Fire Department urges the public to strictly follow safety measures and not take unnecessary risks.

Recommendations

Chimneys

• Do not burn wet, green, or resinous wood, as this creates soot deposits in the flue.
• Do not use flammable liquids to start the fire.
• Keep the fire moderate, without overloading the wood-burning fireplace.
• Keep clothing, toys, furniture, and combustible materials away from the heat source.
• Make sure the fire is completely out before going to bed or leaving the house.
• Never leave children alone in front of the fireplace.
• Ensure proper ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Install smoke detectors as a minimum safety measure.

Braziers

• Always keep rooms well ventilated.
• Do not use them in bedrooms.
• Ensure that the skirts of the stretcher do not touch the heat source.
• Take extreme precautions to avoid poor combustion and gas accumulation.

Maintenance

• Clean the chimney flues at least once a season if used often.
• Have them checked by professionals if they have been unused for a long time.
• Check that there are no holes or leaks in the duct.
• It is advisable to have a portable fire extinguisher at home and know how to use it.