Fire Prevention 101: 6 Tips to Keep Vents Clean and Clear

Winter weather can create hidden hazards around your home — especially when snow and ice block critical ventilation systems or increase fire risks. Here are key safety steps homeowners should take to stay safe during the colder months.

1. Keep Dryer, Furnace, and Exhaust Vents Clear of Snow

Snow drifts can block exterior vents for dryers, furnaces, boilers, and fireplaces, trapping dangerous carbon monoxide (CO) inside your home. After each snowfall, locate your home’s exterior vent pipes and clear away snow and ice to maintain proper airflow.

2. Install & Maintain Carbon Monoxide Alarms

CO cannot be seen, smelled, or tasted — functioning alarms are your only warning. Install CO alarms on every level of your home and outside each sleeping area. Test alarms in accordance with manufacturer instructions, remaining aware of any expiration dates or recalls. If an alarm sounds, get outside immediately and call 9-1-1.

3. Ensure Safe Home Heating Practices

Home heating is one of the leading causes of winter house fires.

• Keep anything flammable at least three feet away from fireplaces, wood stoves, radiators, and space heaters.
• Have chimneys and vents professionally cleaned and inspected each year.
• Never use an oven or gas range to heat your home — this can lead to both fire and CO hazards.
• Use only properly vented combustion heaters and follow manufacturer safety instructions.

4. Keep Exhaust Pipes Clear While Using Vehicles

If a car exhaust pipe is blocked by snow, CO can enter the vehicle cabin. Before warming your car, clear snow from the tailpipe to prevent poisoning.

5. Check Smoke Alarms

Fire risk increases during winter weather, so early detection is essential. Install smoke alarms inside bedrooms, outside sleeping areas, and on every level of your home. Test in accordance with manufacturer instructions.

6. Maintain Safe Wood‑Burning Practices

If you use a fireplace or wood stove:

• Burn only dry, seasoned wood to reduce smoke and creosote buildup.
• Have wood‑burning appliances, chimneys, and vents inspected annually by a certified technician.

A few simple precautions can keep your home running safely during severe weather and can help protect people, pets, and property. Staying winter‑ready means staying safe, informed, and prepared for whatever the season brings.

Source(s) used:

• Winter Weather Advisory: Check CO Alarms and Keep Vents Clear of Snow – Mass.gov: https://www.mass.gov/news/winter-weather-advisory-check-co-alarms-and-keep-vents-clear-of-snow
• Winter Weather and Indoor Air Quality - US EPA: https://www.epa.gov/emergencies-iaq/winter-weather-and-indoor-air-quality
• #WinterReady | Ready.gov: https://www.ready.gov/winter-ready
• Put a Freeze on Winter Fires - U.S. Fire Administration: https://www.usfa.fema.gov/downloads/pdf/publications/winter_infographic.pdf

This information is provided solely as an insurance risk management tool. It is provided with the understanding that the member insurance companies of the Utica National Insurance Group are not providing legal advice, or any other professional services or advice. Utica shall have no liability to any person or entity with respect to any loss or damages alleged to have been caused, directly or indirectly, by the use of this information.