The typical American family spends at least $2,000 each year on energy costs. Sadly, the need for warmth inside the home during the cold winter months is a leading cause of household fires, resulting in millions of dollars of property damage and tragic loss of life.

The U.S. Fire Administration recommends taking these important steps when guarding against household fires this winter:

Kerosene and Space Heaters
• Keep all space heaters at least 36” away from other objects.
• Use only kerosene fuel approved by the manufacturer and never overfill a heater’s fuel reservoir.
• Make sure all oil-burning heaters and their fuel are stored and used in well-ventilated areas.
• Inspect all heaters – oil-burning and electric – for defective or worn parts, especially power cords and exhaust ports.

Fireplaces and Stoves
• Never use stoves, gas ranges, or other cooking equipment as sources of home heating.
• Make sure the chimney is cleaned at least once a year, and keep the fireplace free of ash and creosote buildup.
• Do not use flammable liquids to light fires in a fireplace.
• Keep a screen in front of the fireplace to prevent burning embers or ash from escaping and to prevent unwanted meterials from getting stuck inside.
• Make sure the fireplace is completely extinguished before closing the damper.

Around the home
• Install and maintain smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in every level of your home.
• Avoid using space heaters near water to prevent electrical shock.
• Prepare and practice fire drills with your family, designating escape routes and making sure they are cleared of hazards or impediments.
• Thaw frozen pipes with hot water, not open flame.

Along with the resulting fire and smoke damage, the loss of valuable belongings and treasured keepsakes –even lives – that occurs with a house fire is tragic. Keeping these simple tips in mind could save you and your family from the devastation of a house fire this winter.