Heating equipment is the second leading cause of home fires in the United States (mostly during December, January and February).

Most heating equipment fires start as a result of misuse or improper maintenance. When purchasing new heating equipment, be sure to select products that have been tested and approved by an independent testing laboratory. Install and maintain heating equipment correctly, and be sure it complies with local fire building codes.

NOTE: If there are any space heaters, gas appliances or fireplaces in your home there should be a CO detector in the home as well. Contact your local fire department or code enforcement office to find out the specifications for these detectors.

 Portable and other space heaters

 Portable and space heaters can be either electric or fueled by gas, liquid fuel (kerosene), or solid fuel (wood or coal). All types must be placed at least 36 inches (1 meter) away from anything that can burn, such as wallpaper, bedding, clothing, pets and people. Never leave space heaters operating when you are not in the room or when you go to sleep. Do not leave children or pets unattended with space heaters and be sure everyone understand that drying clothing or placing combustibles over heaters is a fire hazard. If you have an electric space heater check each season for fraying or splitting wires and overheating. Have all problems repaired by a professional before operating the space heater.

Portable Kerosene Heaters

If you have a liquid fueled heater use only the fuel recommended by the manufacturer. Never use gasoline or any other substitute fuel, because the wrong fuel could burn hotter than the equipments design limits and cause a fire. When refueling, always turn off the heater and let it cool down before adding fuel. Wipe up any spills promptly. If you are considering a kerosene heater, be sure to check with a local fire department before purchasing to find out if it is legal in your community. Store the kerosene away from heat or open flame in a container approved by a local fire department, and be sure it is clearly marked with the name of the fuel.

Wood Stoves

Be sure your wood or coal stove bears the label of a recognized testing laboratory and meets local fire codes. Follow the manufacturers recommendations for proper installation, use and maintenance. Chimney connections and chimney flues should be inspected at the beginning of the heating season and cleaned periodically. Follow the same safety rules for wood stoves as you would for space heaters. Burn only wood and be sure the wood stove is placed on an approved stove board to protect the floor from heat and hot embers. Check with your local fire department and local code officials before having your wood stove installed.

CAUTION: Portable LP gas (Propane) heaters with self-contained fuel supplies (cabinet heaters) are prohibited for home use by NFPA fire safety standards.