When the temperatures drop,
people often look for alternative, economic means to heat their home.
Unfortunately, these auxiliary heating devices often present fire and
burn hazards.
Space
Heaters
Make sure units are sturdy and well balanced.
Place the heater away from curtains, furniture and
other combustibles, and out of the normal path of traffic.
Keep heating units away from bathtubs and other
areas near water.
Supervise children closely when heaters are in use.
Wood Burning Stoves
Make sure the unit is recognized by a national
testing laboratory.
Make sure the unit is installed according to local
ordinances. Adequate clearance from the unit to combustibles such as
the wall, floor and furniture is essential.
Contact the local fire department or building
official to determine if a permit is necessary before installation.
Inspect the chimney regularly and have it cleaned
to prevent the build up of creosote and other by-products of
combustion.
Dispose of hat ashes in a metal container that is
placed on a non-combustible surface. Allow the ashes to cool for
several days before removing them from the container.
Fireplaces
Never leave the fire burning unattended. Make sure
the fire is completely out before leaving the room or going to bed.
Always use a screen when a fire is burning in the
fireplace.
Burn only seasoned hardwood for fuel. Burning
wrapping paper or trash in the fireplace could result in a chimney or
roof fire when the debris is lodged in the chimney or lands on the
roof.
Never use gasoline or
other flammable liquids to start or accelerate the fire. The vapors
from these products are extremely dangerous.
