With temperatures below freezing and wind chill values even lower, our heaters are starting to get a workout.  Though trying to keep warm can also increase the number of fire related risks as well.

There are some simple tips we can all use to help prevent home fires this winter.

First, furnaces should be inspected by a professional annually, chimneys and vents also need to be cleaned and inspected each year.

When using a fireplace, make sure the wood is dry and seasoned and have a covered metal container ready to dispose of the cooled ashes.

Portable space heaters should have an automatic shut off and be place three feet away from anything that can burn, such as paper, bedding or walls.

And of course, there should be a working smoke alarm on every level of the home.