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There is something about the winter months and curling up with a good book by the fireplace. However, did you know that heating equipment is one of the leading causes of home fire deaths? With a few simple safety tips and precautions you can prevent most heating fires from happening. Be warm and safe this winter! -Keep anything that can burn at least three-feet away from heating equipment, like the furnace, fireplace, wood stove, or portable space heater. -Have a three-foot “kid-free zone” around open fires and space heaters. - Never use your oven to heat your home. -Have a qualified professional install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters or central heating equipment according to the local codes and manufacturer’s instructions. - Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional. -Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed. -Always use the right kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel burning space heaters. -Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room. Ashes should be cool before putting them in a metal container. Keep the container a safe distance away from your home. -Test your smoke detectors and practice your escape plan with your family monthly!