Heating Safety Tips During Winter’s Cold Temperatures

With the freezing cold temps we've been dealing with, it's tempting to crank the heat, fire up the fireplace and put a space heater in every room to keep the cold at bay.  However, you need to be careful with how you're heating your home.  Stay safe with these heating safety tips for winter's cold temperatures.  Did you know December, January and February are the deadliest months for fires?  These heating safety tips are courtesy of The National Fire Protection Association.

Gas or electric furnaces:

Make sure your furnace is tuned up by a professional and certified technician. 
Get regular cleanings and inspections for optimal performance from your furnace.

Should you notice black smoke coming from your furnace and it starts to rumble, get out immediately and call the fire department.

Portable space heaters:

Always follow the instructions and never leave a space heater unattended.

Use it for a limited time each day.

Never plug your space heater in to an outlet using an extension cord.

Unplug it when you're not using it and let it cool down before storing it.

Keep a window or door open in a room where an unvented heater is being used.

Never using them to dry clothes.

 Fireplaces:

Make sure you remove anything blocking your chimney since obstructions cause carbon monoxide to back up into your house.

Never leave it unattended.

Don't burn trash or newspapers in your fireplace.

Have your chimney cleaned and inspected annually.

Make sure the flue is open before using it for the first time this winter.

Coal and wood burning stoves:

Only use coal that's approved by the manufacturer.  Gas or other flammable liquids should never be used to start a wood fire.

Carbon Monoxide and smoke detectors:

At least once a month, test your smoke alarms.

Check the batteries frequently.

Install a carbon monoxide detector by gas stoves, gas fireplaces, barbecues and gas furnaces.

Stay safe and stay warm.