HEATING SAFETY TIPS

Heating equipment is the second leading cause of home fires in the United States according to the National Fire Protection Association. Most heating equipment fires start as a result of misuse or improper maintenance. Listed below are some safety tips to follow

PORTABLE/SPACE HEATERS 

• Maintain a 36" clearance around all heating devices.

• Never leave children or pets unsupervised around portable heaters.

• Never place cloths close to or on a portable heater to dry.

• Always check to see that electrical wires are in good condition and not frayed.

• Purchase portable heaters that have been listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory.

PORTABLE KEROSENE HEATERS

• Use only the recommended fuel. NEVER USE GASOLINE, it will cause an explosion.

• Always turn the portable heater off before refueling.

• Allow the heater time to cool before refueling.

• Always refuel your kerosene heater outside to keep from spilling fuel in the house.

• Store your gasoline away from open flame or heat in an approved container that is clearly marked as to its contents.

• Keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet away from heater.

FIREPLACES/WOOD STOVES

• Have your chimney/flue inspected by a professional before every heating season, and cleaned if necessary.

• Always have a sturdy screen in place in front of your fireplace.

• Burn only wood (dry, well seasoned hardwood)

• DON NOT burn newspaper, wrapping paper, or dried greenery.

• NEVER use flammable liquids for any reason in a fireplace.

• Keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet away from fireplace.