Heating Information

National Fire Protection Association and the
Cleveland County Emergency Management/Fire Marshal's Office Information:

Heating equipment is the second leading cause of home fires in the United States). Most heating equipment fires start as a result of misuse or improper maintenance.

Portable/Space Heaters

• Maintain a 36" clearance around all heating devices.
• Never leave children or pets unsupervised around portable heaters.
• Never place clothes close to or on a portable heater to dry.
• Always check to see that electrical wires are in good condition and not frayed.
• Purchase portable heaters that have been listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory.
• Follow manufacturer's instructions for installation, maintenance and use.

Portable Kerosene Heaters

• Use only the recommended fuel. NEVER USE GASOLINE, it will cause an explosion.
• Always turn the portable heater off before refueling.
• Allow the heater time to cool before refueling.
• Always refuel your kerosene heater outside to keep from spilling fuel in the house.
• Store your gasoline away from open flame or heat in an approved container that is clearly marked as to its contents.
• Keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet away from heater

Fireplaces/Wood stoves

• Have your chimney/flue inspected by a professional before every heating season, cleaned if necessary.
• Always have a sturdy screen in place in front of your fireplace
• Burn only wood (dry, well seasoned hardwood)
• Do NOT burn newspaper, wrapping paper, or dried greenery.
• NEVER use flammable liquids for any reason in a fireplace.
• Keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet away from fireplace.