Real Estate
Winter Fire Risks: Space Heaters, Fireplaces, and Chimney Safety
Service area callouts: Helpful for homes and condos across Vail, Avon, Edwards, Minturn, Eagle, Gypsum, Wolcott, and Aspen.
Quick takeaways
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Keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet from heat sources.
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Plug space heaters directly into a wall outlet. No power strips.
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Clean fireplaces and chimneys before heavy use.
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Test smoke alarms and CO alarms. Replace batteries now.
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If you smell smoke where you should not, or a heater trips the breaker, stop and get help.
Space heater checklist
Before you plug it in
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Look for a tip-over switch and UL listing.
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Inspect cord and plug. No damage, no tape.
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Choose the right room. Avoid bathrooms and wet areas.
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Clear a 3-foot safety zone around the unit.
While in use
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Plug into a wall outlet only. One heater per circuit.
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Set a timer or use a thermostat model to avoid overnight runs.
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Keep children and pets outside the safety zone.
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Turn off when you leave the room.
DRS note: Unsure if a past incident left smoke odor or residue in a room in Vail or Aspen? Give DRS a call to review cleaning and deodorization options.
Fireplaces and chimneys
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Schedule a chimney sweep and inspection at least once per year.
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Burn only seasoned wood. No trash, boxes, or construction scraps.
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Use a spark screen. Keep embers off rugs and wood floors.
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Store ash in a metal container with a tight lid, outside, 10 feet from structures.
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For gas fireplaces, check the glass seal and venting. If the flame looks yellow or sooty, stop and have it serviced.
DRS note: After a minor fireplace flare-up or puff-back in West Vail, Edwards, or Aspen’s West End, call DRS to review soot cleanup and indoor air quality options.
Holiday risks that sneak up
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Overloaded outlets with trees, lights, and heaters on the same circuit.
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Dry Christmas trees near fireplaces or baseboard heaters.
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Candles on mantels under garlands. Swap to battery candles.
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Space heaters in garages near paints, solvents, or skis waxes.
DRS note: If you had a small smoke event and need cleaning support or documentation for insurance, give DRS a call to review your options.
Alarms, detectors, and exits
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Test smoke and CO alarms on each floor and in sleeping areas.
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Replace any unit 10 years old or older.
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Plan two ways out of every room. Keep exits clear of boots and gear.
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Post emergency numbers where guests can see them in short-term rentals.
After a smoke or small fire incident
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Vent the area, but avoid spreading soot by running the HVAC.
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Do not wipe soot on painted walls with water. You can set stains.
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Bag porous items with heavy odor for professional review.
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Document what happened and where odors linger.
DRS note: We can review cleaning plans, set up air filtration, and provide a clear report for your files.
Real Estate
The DRS Difference: Winter-Ready Peace of Mind
- Soot and smoke cleanup tailored to mountain homes
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Odor removal and HEPA air filtration
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Contents cleaning and clear documentation for insurers
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Flexible scheduling for second homes and property managers
Serving Vail, Avon, Edwards, Minturn, Eagle, Gypsum, Wolcott, and Aspen. Not sure what you need? Give DRS a call to review your options.