Latest local news, weather and high school sports from the Midlands

As a result of colder temperatures many residents have started to crank up their heaters. The winter months are the deadliest time of the year for the fire service. The Columbia Fire Department is urging area residents to use the following safety precautions when heating their homes.

Portable Heaters

• Always read and follow manufacturer's instructions.
• The Columbia Fire Department strongly discourages the use of portable heaters.
• Before purchasing a space heater make sure that it has the mark of an independent testing laboratory. Also choose heaters with automatic shut -off features.
• Provide 3ft of clearance around and above the heater.
• Unplug the unit when not in use, when leaving the room, and before going to bed.
• Plug heater directly into an outlet. Do not plug portable heaters into extension cords.
• Do not use heaters to dry clothing.

Kerosene Heaters

• Read and follow manufacturer instructions.
• Clean the unit as often and as recommend by the manufacturer.
• Use only approved type of kerosene.
• Never use gasoline.
• Refuel only after the unit has cooled completely.
• Use and refuel in areas that are ventilated.
• Provide three feet of clearance from combustibles.

Fire Place and wood stoves. 

• Have chimney and connectors inspected annually by a professional.
• Clean as often as needed.
• Be sure to open the flue.
• Provide a screen for fireplaces.

Gas or Electric Furnaces 

Gas and electric furnaces that have not been used for several months will most likely have dust on the heating elements. This can cause a burning smell or even a light white haze of smoke when first operated for the season. This is normal and should go away after the first usage.

• Gas and electric furnaces should be inspected and maintained in accordance with manufacturer's recommendations.

Carbon Monoxide Detectors 

If you have any fuel burning appliances, in your home you need a carbon monoxide detector. Fuel burning appliances include: gas stove, gas or wood fire place, gas hot water heaters, gas dyers or any other appliance that are not powered by battery or electricity.

Smoke alarms

Smoke alarms are the most important piece of life safety equipment a family can have in their home. A working smoke alarm decreases your chance of dying in a fire by 50 percent.

Smoke alarms should be placed on the ceiling or on the wall 6 to 8 inches from the ceiling. For the minimum protection provide at least one smoke alarm on each level out side of sleeping area.

For maximum protection install smoke alarms in each bedroom, out side of all sleeping areas and at least one on each level of the home. Smoke alarms should be tested every month and shall be replaced as need or every ten years.

Always remember to change your batteries!