Union County Fire & Rescue Urges Heating Safety as Cooler Weather Arrives

Union County Fire & Rescue is reminding residents to prepare their home heating systems as fall temperatures drop and the risk of house fires rises.

Heating the home is one of the leading causes of house fires during fall and winter, officials said. All heating systems need maintenance and attention before use.

For fireplaces and wood-burning heaters, the department recommends having the chimney inspected, cleaned and maintained each year by a certified inspector. Inspectors can also clean the chimney and repair any damage. Chimney fires can quickly spread and become house fires.

Fireplaces themselves should be cleaned and inspected before the first fire of the season. Keep flammable objects away from the fireplace, as sparks and embers can fly out and ignite nearby items. A screen or glass cover helps reduce that risk.

Gas fireplaces also require proper operation and maintenance. If a gas fireplace is not burning correctly, contact the gas company for an inspection. Homes with any gas-burning appliances, including heaters, should have working carbon monoxide detectors.

Central heating systems should be cleaned, inspected and serviced annually by a certified HVAC contractor before the heating season begins. Regular service improves safety, can reduce fuel costs and helps avoid larger repairs later. Changing air filters is also recommended.

Before lighting the first fire or turning the thermostat to heat, residents should have their systems inspected and cleaned. Officials also advise checking smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors at the same time.