Common Sense & Safety Tips

As the winter months approach and the temperatures start to cool, it is important to have our furnaces, fireplaces and wood burning/ pellet burning stoves serviced and readied for the season. You should also evaluate older inefficient equipment prior to freezing temperatures arriving. Quite often the savings associated with newer units will offset the costs of replacement. This is especially true considering the costs of gas and oil.

As you start your heating appliances for the season, it is important to stay safe and alert around these appliances. Here are a few safety tips:

• READ THE MANUAL!. This simple but often overlooked suggestion could make the difference between safe operation of your appliance and potential safety hazards.
• Always approach safety as if your life depended upon it. It Does!
• Approach safety like your life depended on it, Because it does!!
• Have your appliance serviced or installed by a qualified professional. Even if you are able to find a great deal on purchasing an appliance, you should have it installed by someone who understands proper installation and the building / fire codes in your area. Operate your appliance as specified by the manufacturer. Ahrere to the guidelines established in the manual.
• For wood burning stoves and  fireplaces NEVER use any starter fluids or chemicals unless the stove is COLD. These products are not designed to re-star a fire in a hot stove. Doing so will put you and your home at risk of fire.
• A quality magnetic thermometer should be used on your stove.
• You should install carbon monoxide and smoke detectors and check them often.
• Have an experienced heating technician check your stove and stove pipes every year before the winter season to prevent problems related to safety.
• Use only the type of fuel your equipment is rated for
• You should always have a fire extinguisher handy in your home and train everyone old enough to use one in the proper techniques. Your local fire department rotinely trains people in the proper use of this safety item.
• You can also have the local fire department inspect your home for fire safety issues. These inspections are normally free. There may be other programs and training available in your area so check with your local department., they will be happy to assist you.