Safety Tips for Use of Furnaces, Fireplaces and Wood-burning Stoves
The Las Cruces Fire Department wants this winter to be a safe one for all and is offering these safety tips for the proper use of home heating systems, fireplaces and wood-burning stoves.
- Fireplaces, wood stoves and furnaces should be installed according to manufacturer’s instructions and in accordance with all building codes.
- Have your heating system, water heater, stove and other fuel-burning appliances serviced by a qualified technician at least once a year.
- Change heating furnace filters often to increase efficiency and avoid overworking the system.
- Ensure adequate ventilation for fireplaces and wood stoves.
- Use only the fuel that’s recommended for the specific fireplace or stove.
- Do not burn paper or paper products in a fireplace or wood-burning stove.
- Check chimney or stovepipes often for creosote buildup and clean when needed.
- Keep matches and lighters out of the reach of children.
- Use a metal container for removing ash and coals.
- Never dump hot ashes or coals into a dumpster or trash can.
- Operate portable heaters according to manufacturer’s specifications and keep them, candles and cigarettes away from bedding, curtains and other combustibles.
- Never use a portable heater near bathtubs, showers or other water sources.
- Keep Christmas trees, decorations, furniture and other potentially combustible items away from fireplaces, wood-burning stoves and portable heaters.
- Extinguish fireplaces, candles, stoves, and turn off all decorative lights prior to leaving home.
- Install a battery-operated carbon monoxide detector in your home.
- Never use generators, grills, camp stoves, chimineas or similar devices indoors.
- Keep a multipurpose, dry-chemical fire extinguisher in the home and know how to use it.
- Call 911 and vacate the building immediately if you smell gas, toxic fumes or in case of fire.
For more safety tips visit the Las Cruces Fire Department online at www.CLCFD.com
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