Heating equipment is a leading cause of home fires during the winter months. Two out of three reported home heating fires involve portable and fixed space heaters like fireplaces and chimneys. 

Baseboard Heaters 

• Check baseboard heaters often and remove objects that have fallen on top or near the heater.
• Keep all furniture a safe distance from your heaters.
• Never block the flow of heat.
• Never permit electrical cords to drape across heaters.
• Always hire an experienced electrician to do any necessary repair work on your baseboard heaters. 

 Portable Heaters 

• Portable models heat up rapidly, and like baseboard heaters, they can easily ignite any flammable item left nearby.
• When shopping for a portable heater, choose a model with an automatic shut-off device.
• Avoid using household extension cords with portable heaters.
• Always turn the heater off when you go to bed.
• Place the heater on a flat surface. 

Fireplaces and Woodstoves 

• If you use a fireplace to heat your home, have a professional inspect and if necessary, clean your chimney before each heating season.
• Creosote can build up along the inside of the chimney and pose a fire hazard.