Now that cold weather has arrived and temperatures plunge below the freezing mark, citizens are looking for alternative heating sources to warm there homes. Over the last couple of days the CFD has responded to several heating related fires.

 The use of portable space heaters create opportunities for human error. The most common problems leading to heating fires are fueling issues, failure to clean devices and placing them too close to combustible items.

Room gas heaters, portable kerosene heaters and portable electric heaters have the greatest risk of death. Wood stoves or fireplaces with inserts have the greatest risk of property damage from fire.

All heaters can be operated safely if close attention is paid to the proper usage, installation, and maintenance of these devices:

• Keep kerosene or other flammable liquids stored in a labeled, approved container outside of the house. With the gas shortages this fall, citizens have used various containers to stockpile gasoline. Before you fire up the kerosene heater for the winter check these storage containers to insure that you have not mixed gasoline in with your kerosene.

• Never attempt to fill a heater inside the structure or while the heater is hot.

• Space heaters need space, give all types of space heaters 3 feet of clearance in all directions from combustibles or anything that might catch fire.

• Read manual and follow all instructions for correct operation and safety concerns.

• Have existing heating units inspected by a qualified technician annually.

• Do not use a flammable liquid to start a fire

• Keep a glass or metal screen in front of the fire place opening to prevent embers or sparks from coming out.

• Install spark arresters on your chimney to prevent sparks, woods or brush fires.

Test your Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Alarms monthly; install new batteries twice a year.  Remember to create and practice a home escape plan with your family. Remember most fires occur in residential properties. Take the proper steps to protect your home and family from the tragedy of a heating appliance incident.