Space Heaters

Smoke Alarms
Install a smoke alarm on every level of your home. Test smoke alarm batteries every month and change them at least once a year. Consider installing a 10-year lithium battery-powered smoke alarm, which is sealed so it cannot be tampered with or opened.

~ Kerosene heaters are not permitted in many areas. If you use a kerosene heater, use only the recommended fuel. Always refuel outdoors safely away from your home.

~ Allow your heater to cool before refueling and only refuel outdoors.

~ Keep the fire in the fireplace by making sure you have a screen large enough to catch flying sparks and rolling logs.

~ Clean your chimney regularly - chimney tar build-up can ignite your chimney, roof, and the whole house.

~ Space heaters need space. Keep combustibles at least 3 feet away from each heater.

~ When buying a space heater, look for a control feature that automatically shuts off the power if the heater falls over.

~ Carefully follow manufacturers' installation and maintenance instructions.

~ For wood stove fuel use only seasoned wood, not green wood, artificial logs, or trash.

~ In case of a fire, stay low to the ground, beneath the smoke, and have an escape plan already worked out. Get out. Stay out.

For more information on the U.S. Fire Administration Public Education Campaigns or to speak with a USFA spokesperson please call 202-842-3600. Also visit www.usfa , fema.gov or www.firesafety.gov for additional information on fire safety.

Source: http://www.usfa.dhs.gov/downloads/pdf/mediacorps/ffwf-5.pdf