New Yorkers Need to Check this Hidden Fire Hazard

Disaster was narrowly avoided this week in the Hudson Valley, NY, and it was all due to a fire hazard that many New Yorkers will never think about.

There are plenty of steps you can take to not set your house on fire. Suggestions range from obvious (don't leave burning candles unattended) to less common (like the "three feet rule" with space heaters). There's another danger, however, that could be hiding in plain sight.

Call for "Smoke" in Westchester County, NY Leads to Startling Discovery

"Around 7pm Thursday night, the Croton-on-Hudson Fire Department (CHFD) was called to a home in the Harmon section of the village for 'smoke coming from a ceiling'", began a recent report from the CHFD. The source of the smoke wasn't found in the kitchen, garage, or any of the "usual" places, however. This time it was coming from the bathroom.

Why New Yorkers Should Check Their Bathroom Exhaust Fans

"The source of the smoke was an older bathroom exhaust fan", the CHFD shared. Photos of the fan (below) show the amount of debris that had accumulated on the appliance which, when heated, can combust into flames.

The Hidden Dangers of Bathroom Exhaust Fans

"Members removed the fan and noted similar lint & debris buildup in the vent leading out of the home. All was cooled down and the smoke was ventilated in short order", the CHFD continued. They also used the opportunity to remind Hudson Valley residents to check appliances like bathroom fans that are hidden out of sight and often out of mind. From the CHFD:

Often, reminders are made to the public about the importance of lint removal from their clothes dryers - however any fans or other blower devices should be checked and cleaned periodically as well to reduce the potential for fire.

Discounting bathroom exhaust fans as a fire hazard may be due to the assumption that they don't interact with anything flammable. However, just like the blades on the ceiling fan in your living room, dust can accumulate over long periods of time in your bathroom as well, potentially leading to danger.

SEE ALSO: What Do New York Laws Say About Driving with Snow On Your Car?

Another hazard to avoid this winter is snow and ice. Luckily, Hudson Valley drivers are no strangers to special hacks to make the removal process easier than ever. Check out how a straw, cooking spray, and even a sock can make your life easier (and safer) below.