At Buckeye Northwest Realty, your safety is our top priority. Here’s how to enjoy the warmth of the season responsibly, plus a look at some exciting local events to get you out of the house this January!

1. The “Three-Foot Rule” for Heat

Heating equipment is a leading cause of home fire injuries during the Ohio freeze. If you use a portable space heater, follow these essential rules:

• Give it Space: Keep anything that can burn—blankets, curtains, furniture, and even pets, at least three feet away from your heater.
• Plug it Directly: Never plug a space heater into an extension cord or power strip. These devices aren’t designed for the high wattage of a heater and can easily overheat.
• Turn it Off: Always shut off and unplug your heater when you leave the room or go to sleep.

2. Smoke Detector Maintenance & Local Resources

A working smoke detector is your first line of defense.

• The Monthly Test: Press the test button on your unit once a month. If the beep is weak or silent, replace the 9-volt battery immediately.
• Toledo’s Free Alarm Program: If you are a Toledo resident and need additional smoke detectors for your home, the Toledo Fire Prevention Bureau provides them for free. You can contact them at (419) 245-1140 or visit their office at One Government Center.
• Buckeye Reminder: If the smoke detector provided in your rental is malfunctioning or chirping after a battery change, please notify our maintenance team immediately.

3. Pet Safety in an Emergency

For many of our residents, pets are family. Protect them by being prepared:

• Window Clings: Use a “Pet Alert” window cling near your front door. This tells Toledo Fire & Rescue exactly how many animals are inside if a fire breaks out while you aren’t home.
• Leash-at-the-Ready: Keep leashes or carriers near the exit. In an emergency, you won’t have time to search under beds or in closets.

4. Beat Cabin Fever: January 2026 Events in Toledo

Once your home is a safety fortress, head out and enjoy the best of the Glass City this January!

• New Year’s Resolution Skate: Kick off the year at The Ribbon at Glass City Metropark on Friday, January 2nd. It’s the perfect way to stay active and enjoy the downtown riverfront.
• Traveling Bricks at Imagination Station: Catch the final days of this massive LEGO exhibit celebrating the history of transportation! It runs through January 4, 2026.
• Disney Classics Skate Party: Bring the family to The Ribbon on Friday, January 9th (2 PM – 9 PM) for a magical evening of skating to your favorite Disney hits.
• Radiance and Reverie at TMA: Warm up inside the Toledo Museum of Art and see over 150 extraordinary jewels from the Neil Lane collection. This dazzling exhibit is open through January 18, 2026.
• The Toledo Pizza Passport: Starting January 12th, embark on a self-guided tour of 10 local pizza spots. It’s a delicious way to explore Northwest Ohio.

A Safe New Year Starts at Home

By following these simple safety tips and utilizing local Toledo resources, you protect your home and your neighbors. We’re excited to see what 2026 has in store for our community!

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