Make a habit of seeing that matches and lighters are out of children's reach. Teach children that matches and lighters arc tools for adults, not toys. Check with your fire department to make sure it is installed property, and have your chimney cleaned at least once a year. Clothes, furniture, newspapers and other combustibles should be kept at least 36 inches from stoves, fireplaces and space heaters. Use a screen over your fireplace, and never leave a fire unattended.
Portable heaters can also pose a fire hazard.
Portable heaters must be placed 3 feet from combustibles and away from doorways and other traffic paths. Check for electrical cords and plugs that are cracked, worn or frayed, and for overloaded electrical outlets. If you must use extension cords, plug only one appliance into each cord, and don't run extension cords under rugs or across doorways. Dispose of unnecessary trash that could fuel a fire, including sawdust and wood shavings around the workbench. The area around the furnace, clothes dryer or water heater must be clear of combustibles.