It’s important to stay smart and safe as the temperatures drop this fall and into the winter season. Here are some home heating safety tips and steps to follow so you and your family can stay safe.
- Be sure all furnace controls and emergency shutoffs are in proper working condition.
- Leave furnace repairs to qualified specialists. Do not attempt repairs yourself unless you are qualified.
- Inspect the walls and ceiling near the furnace and along the chimney line. If the wall is hot or discolored, additional pipe insulation or clearance may be required.
- Check the flue pipe and pipe seams. Are they well supported, free of holes, and cracks? Soot along or around seams may be an indicator of a leak.
- Is the chimney solid, or does it have cracks or loose bricks? All unused flue openings should be sealed with solid masonry.
- Keep trash and other combustibles away from the heating system.
- Keep trash and other combustibles away from the heating system.
- Plug all space heaters directly into outlets. DO NOT use extension cords.
- Never leave your fireplace unattended.
- Do not use your stove to heat your home.
- Make sure to test all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.