With chilly temperatures on the way, fire resulting from equipment used to heat homes becomes a concern. The Broome County Office of Emergency Services would like you to keep in mind the following.

·        Do not use ovens or stoves to heat your home.

·        Have a licensed professional inspect heating systems and other fuel-burning appliances after being flooded.

·        Do not use unvented gas or kerosene space heaters in enclosed spaces. Keep doors open to the rest of the house to help promote proper ventilation.

·        Do not run a fuel-powered engine, such as a generator or pump, inside the home , attached garage, or on a porch. 

·        Do not use charcoal or gas grills inside or operate outdoors near a window where CO fumes could seep in through a window or door.

·        Have your electrical system checked by a licensed professional after being flooded.

·        Place space heaters on a hard, level and nonflammable surface, and keep them at least three feet away from bedding, drapes, furniture, and other flammable materials.

·        Never refill an engine while running or inside.

·        Extinguish all candles when leaving the room or before going to sleep.

·        Do not use candles in places where they could be knocked over by children or pets. 

·        Never leave a child unattended in a room with a candle.

Check the batteries in your smoke and CO alarms.