As you are getting cozy for the winter months… Remember fireplaces, wood stoves, and space heaters may help keep you warm, but they can pose fire hazards.

Some suggestions are as follows:

• Always keep a fire extinguisher near the source of heat.
• Regularly maintain, clean, and inspect these heat sources.
• Be sure your home is properly ventilated.
• Only use the type of fuel or kindling that your heat source requires.
• Inspect all electrical cords, and never use an appliance with a frayed or damaged cord.
• Keep all drapes, furniture, bedding and anything else flammable away from the heat source.

Source: “Fireplace Safety”, Yahoo Health Tip (November, 2006).