Fall in New Orleans means cooler mornings, comfortable evenings, and the perfect excuse to light a fire pit or cozy up with a blanket. It is one of the most enjoyable times of the year to spend time at home, but it is also a season when safety becomes especially important.
Between space heaters, candles, and outdoor fires, fall brings a few extra hazards that homeowners should keep in mind. A little preparation now can go a long way toward keeping your home safe, warm, and worry-free all season long.
Here are a few simple ways to enjoy the season while keeping safety front and center.
Check Your Heating Sources
When temperatures start to dip, most Louisiana homeowners reach for a space heater before turning on the central heat. These little devices can make a big difference on a chilly morning, but they also cause thousands of home fires across the country every year.
Before plugging in your heater, inspect it carefully. Look for frayed cords, broken switches, or any signs of damage. Keep it on a flat, sturdy surface and at least three feet away from anything flammable, such as curtains, bedding, or furniture.
If you rely on your home’s heating system, test it early in the season. The last thing you want is to find out it needs service on the coldest night of the year. A quick tune-up can also help it run more efficiently and save money on energy bills.
Enjoy Fire Pits Responsibly
There is nothing quite like a backyard fire pit on a crisp fall evening. It is the perfect spot to gather with friends, roast marshmallows, and enjoy the season. But before striking a match, take a few precautions.
Set your fire pit on a non-flammable surface, such as concrete or stone, and keep it at a safe distance from fences, sheds, and overhanging trees. Keep a hose, sand, or a bucket of water nearby just in case.
Always supervise the fire and never leave it unattended, even for a few minutes. When you are finished, make sure the flames are completely out and the ashes are cool before walking away.
And remember that fall winds in southern Louisiana can shift quickly. Be mindful of where the smoke and embers are blowing, especially in close neighborhoods or near wood decks.
Practice Candle and Fireplace Safety
Candles add a warm, comforting glow to any room, but they are also one of the most common causes of house fires during the fall and winter months.
Keep candles on sturdy, heat-resistant surfaces and away from anything that could catch fire. Never leave them burning overnight or in an empty room. If you love the cozy look but worry about safety, try flameless LED candles. They create the same ambiance without any risk.
If your home has a fireplace, fall is the perfect time to have the chimney inspected and cleaned before lighting that first fire. Over time, soot and debris can build up inside and become a fire hazard. Always use a screen to catch sparks, and dispose of ashes in a metal container once they are completely cool.
Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Now is the time to give your detectors a quick check. Replace the batteries in every smoke and carbon monoxide detector and make sure each one works properly.
Every floor of your home should have at least one smoke detector and one carbon monoxide detector, especially near bedrooms and common living areas.
If your detectors are more than seven to ten years old, consider replacing them entirely. Modern models are more sensitive, reliable, and often come with long-lasting batteries that do not require yearly replacement.
Keep Outdoor Areas Well Lit
With shorter days, many homeowners find themselves coming and going after sunset. Good outdoor lighting helps prevent accidents and makes your home feel more secure.
Check your porch, walkway, and driveway lights, and replace any burned-out bulbs. Solar-powered path lights are an easy, affordable way to brighten up outdoor areas without worrying about wiring.
If you have motion-activated lights, clean the sensors and test them to make sure they are working correctly. While you are outside, sweep away leaves or debris that could cause someone to slip.
Keep Dry Leaves and Debris Away from Heat Sources
Falling leaves look beautiful, but they can also create fire hazards if not managed properly. Dry leaves are highly flammable and can ignite quickly when too close to grills, fire pits, or outdoor heaters.
Rake up leaves regularly and dispose of them properly rather than burning them. Keep piles away from the house, and clean your gutters to prevent buildup. This not only improves safety but also helps with drainage during fall rainstorms.
Review Your Home Emergency Plan
Fall is also a great time to review your emergency plan. Make sure fire extinguishers are fully charged and stored in easily accessible locations, such as the kitchen or garage.
Review evacuation routes with your family so everyone knows how to get out safely in case of a fire or storm. It is also smart to ensure everyone knows how to turn off gas, electricity, and water if needed.
Check that your emergency contact numbers are up to date and stored in a place where they can be easily found.
A Safe Fall Is a Cozy Fall
Fall is one of the most enjoyable times of the year, but it is also a season when home safety deserves a little extra attention. A few small steps like checking your detectors, keeping your space heater clear, and cleaning your chimney can make your home safer and more comfortable for you and your loved ones.
At Team Lirette, we love helping homeowners enjoy every season to the fullest. Whether you are preparing your home for the holidays or planning your next move, we are here to help you keep your home safe, comfortable, and ready for whatever comes next.