As temperatures begin to drop, tenants turn on fireplaces and space heaters to stay comfortable. Fall is an ideal time for property managers to send clear reminders about safe heating practices, building policies, and how to request service. Proactive communication reduces risks, prevents misunderstandings, and helps keep residents safe. Here are a few key seasonal communication tips to help you keep tenants informed and your properties safe.
Tip #1 Communicating Fireplace Safety
Send a short checklist ahead of the colder months. Encourage tenants to keep anything that can burn at least three feet from the fireplace, use a sturdy glass or metal screen, and put out fires before going to bed or leaving home. Remind them never to burn paper or trash and to place cooled ashes in a metal container with a lid, stored outside and away from the building. Link your message to trusted guidance such as the U.S. Fire Administration’s fireplace safety card and NFPA’s heating safety tips so tenants have a quick reference.
Key points to include:
- Burn only dry, seasoned wood
- Keep a three-foot kid-free zone
- Report smoke, odor, or draft issues right away so management can schedule service
Tip #2 Reminding Tenants About Safe Space Heater Use
Space heaters are convenient, but they carry higher fire risk. NFPA data shows that space heaters and heating stoves are associated with a significant share of home heating fires, injuries, and losses. Your fall bulletin should make expectations simple and specific. Share NFPA’s portable electric heater checklist and highlight basics:
- Use a heater that is UL-listed and has tip-over and overheat protection
- Keep heaters at least three feet from anything that can burn
- Plug heaters directly into a wall outlet, never an extension cord
- Turn them off and unplug them when leaving the room or going to sleep
If your property restricts certain heater types or wattage, state that policy plainly and remind tenants where to find it in the lease or portal.
Tip #3 Encourage Preventative Reporting
Invite tenants to report drafts, nonworking detectors, or heater issues early through the FAS Tenant Portal so your team can track and prioritize tickets. Clarify what qualifies as an emergency, such as no heat or a suspected gas leak, and list the best phone number to call after hours.
Tip #4 Pair Safety With Practical Energy Tips
The U.S. Department of Energy recommends proper filter changes, clear vents and radiators, thoughtful thermostat use, and to reinforce monthly smoke alarm testing and routine carbon monoxide alarm checks.
Tip #5 Choosing the Right Channels and Timing
Send a concise fall safety email, post a reminder in common areas, and pin a notice in the portal. Use bullets and a simple subject line such as “Fall Fireplace and Space Heater Safety” so the message is easy to scan and save.
Looking for Professional Property Management to Handle Your Tenant Communications? Partner With FAS Management
FAS Management supports both seasonal maintenance and tenant communication, helping owners reduce risk and keep residents informed. To streamline fall safety reminders and year-round property care across your D.C. rentals, reach out to us today at (202) 337-5080.
Sources:
- https://www.usfa.fema.gov/downloads/pdf/publications/fireplace_woodstove_safety_card.pdf
- https://www.nfpa.org/downloadable-resources/safety-tip-sheets/heating-safety-tip-sheet
- https://www.nfpa.org/education-and-research/home-fire-safety/heating
- https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/home-heating-systems
