With the abundance of snow still in our listening area, the Jefferson Fire Chief reminds everyone to check a couple of areas around their homes for potential hazards.

Fire Chief Jack Williams says property owners should check their furnace vents and clear them of any snow. If snow is blocking the vent, Williams says carbon monoxide can build up in the home and can cause carbon monoxide poisoning. He adds that individuals in the rural parts of the county are more susceptible to blowing and drifting snow and so those property owners should check their vents more frequently. Williams reminds everyone to make sure to change out furnace filters to keep them from dirt build-up, which could start a fire.

Another reminder is to make sure properties that have fire hydrants are also cleared of snow and ice. Williams says there should be at least a two-foot clearance around the hydrant so that fire crews can easily access it in case of an emergency.