Since the arrival of cooler temperatures, many people are now using their wood stove, furnace, and other heating equipment. Over the past several weeks, TVF&R firefighters have responded to fires caused by furniture too close to baseboard heaters, sparks from chimneys and wood stoves igniting roof materials, and a malfunctioning furnace.

Protect yourself by following these safety tips:

1. Have your chimney or wood stove inspected for cracks and creosote, and cleaned if necessary. After using your chimney or wood stove, allow ashes to cool completely by waiting 2-3 days before cleaning your fireplace or wood stove. If you cannot wait several days, dispose of ashes safely by placing them outside, in a metal container, away from the home.
2. Use only dry, seasoned wood (reduces creosote build-up) and never leave your fire unattended.
3. Have your furnace inspected on an annual basis.
4. Keep combustibles (paper, furniture and wood) at least 3 ft. away from all portable and baseboard heaters, fireplaces, and wood stoves.
5. Never use kerosene, propane or other heaters intended for out-of-doors, in a home or shop area because of the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

In addition, protect yourself by maintaining working smoke alarms on each level of your home, between the sleeping and living areas and in each bedroom. Check them weekly by pushing the "test" button on the unit and change the batteries at least twice a year. (Better yet, if your smoke alarm(s) are not connected to your home’s electrical system, replace your current 9-volt battery type smoke alarms, with the new long-life battery type units. These units, available at all retail outlets, can provide up to 10 years of protection.) If you do not have a working smoke alarm, call Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue at (503) 649-8577. Sponsored in part by Platt Electric, the District’s Residential Smoke Alarm Program includes free inspections, as well as smoke alarms or batteries if needed. Also, for additional protection, consider installing carbon monoxide detectors. ###