It would appear that winter is upon us. With that, may of us are turning up the heat for the first time. We ask that you first check some of these things:

• All Heating Types
• • Use heating equipment that has the label of a recognized testing laboratory.
  • Keep things that burn such as paper, curtains, bedding, or furniture, at least three feet away from all heating equipment, including fireplaces, wood stoves, and pellet stoves.
  • Keep a three foot “kid and pet free zone” around all heating equipment.
• Heaters
• • Use newer, portable space heaters with an automatic shut-off so if they’re tipped over, they will shut off.
  • Clean them each year before using and check for product recalls.
  • Unplug portable space heaters when not in use, before going to bed, or when leaving the room.
  • Make sure fuel-burning heaters are designed for indoor use, and are properly ventilated.
• Wood and Pellet Burning Heating Equipment (fireplaces, wood stoves, pellet stoves)
• • Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected at least once a year by a qualified professional.
  • In wood stoves and fireplaces, burn only dry, seasoned wood. In pellet stoves, burn only dry, seasoned pellets.
  • Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from escaping.
  • Place ashes in a metal container, soak with water, and keep them at least 10 feet away from the home or anything that can burn. Dispose of the ash only after it is cool.