Cold Weather Fire Safety

Colder weather often leads to an increase in residential fires. The American Red Cross calls home fires "America's biggest disaster threat." and it's issued some guidelines for preventing them. Keep all potential sources of fuel -- like paper, clothing, bedding, or rugs -- at least three feet away from space heaters, stoves and fireplaces. Never leave portable heaters unattended. If buying a new space heater, look for models that shut off automatically if they're tipped over. Never use your stove or oven to heat your home. And, if you have a fireplace, keep the fire inside it by using a glass or metal fire screen that's large enough to catch sparks and rolling logs.