As another powerful snowstorm blankets the NYC in snow and freezing temperatures, New Yorkers are turning up the heat, lighting candles, and digging out from heavy snowfall. While staying warm and safe is the top priority, winter storms also bring an increased risk of fires and carbon monoxide emergencies.

The Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY) urges residents to take extra precautions during severe winter weather. Here’s what you need to know to protect your home and loved ones during the latest nyc snowstorm.

Space Heater Safety: Give Them Space

Space heaters are one of the leading causes of winter fires. If you’re using one during the blizzard:

• Always use certified space heaters and place them on flat, non-flammable surfaces.
• Keep heaters at least 3 feet away from curtains, furniture, bedding, and anything else that can burn. Give space heaters space.
• Never leave a space heater unattended — turn it off when you leave the room or go to sleep.
• Plug the heater directly into a wall outlet. Never use an extension cord or power strip, which can overheat and spark a fire.

A small heating mistake can escalate quickly, especially when emergency response times may be slowed by heavy snow.

Carbon Monoxide Awareness: The Silent Danger

With windows closed tight and heating systems running nonstop, carbon monoxide (CO) becomes a serious concern.

• Install working carbon monoxide alarms on every level of your home, especially near sleeping areas.
• Never use an oven or stove to heat your home. It can quickly fill your space with deadly carbon monoxide.

Carbon monoxide is colorless and odorless — alarms are your only early warning system. Test them regularly and replace batteries as needed.

Shoveling Snow Safely

Fire safety also includes personal safety. Snow shoveling can be physically demanding and dangerous in extreme cold.

Before heading outside:

• Warm up with light stretching.
• Dress in layers and wear boots with good traction to prevent slips and falls.
• Use a lightweight shovel.
• Push snow instead of lifting whenever possible.
• Take frequent breaks and avoid overexertion.
• Stay hydrated — even in cold weather.

Overexertion during snow removal can lead to serious medical emergencies, including heart attacks.

Candle Safety During Power Outages

If the blizzard causes power outages, candles may seem like an easy solution — but they can quickly become a fire hazard.

• Use flameless candles whenever possible.
• If using traditional candles, keep them in sturdy holders and far from anything flammable.
• Never leave candles burning unattended or within reach of children and pets.

One unattended candle can turn a winter inconvenience into a devastating fire.

Winter Preparedness Essentials

Storm preparation goes beyond heating and lighting:

• Stock up on flashlights, batteries, non-perishable food, and bottled water.
• Create a family emergency plan so everyone knows what to do during a fire or severe winter storm.
• Check on elderly and vulnerable neighbors.
• Test your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms monthly.
• Keep fire hydrants clear. Snow-covered hydrants can delay firefighters during critical moments. After the storm, help by clearing snow and ice around hydrants on your block.

Stay Safe, Stay Smart

Blizzards test the resilience of New Yorkers — but preparation and caution make all the difference. A few simple precautions can prevent fires, injuries, and tragedies during extreme an NYC snowstorm.

For more winter safety tips, visit the FDNY website.

Stay warm, stay safe, and look out for one another.