Using a space heater or fireplace? Stay safe with these tips

With temperatures suddenly falling across the Houston area, many people are turning to open flames and other devices to keep their homes warm.

Unfortunately, those devices can pose safety risks and cause destructive fires, especially when left unattended.

John Drengenberg, consumer safety director at Underwriters Laboratories, explains how to safely use space heaters and other items people use to stay warm this season.

Space heater safety tips

1. Look for the UL Mark on your electric heater: This means representative samples of the appliance have met UL's stringent safety standards.
2. Never use space heaters as a primary source of heat: When using a space heater as a supplementary device, make sure it is at least 3 feet away from any household combustibles, such as curtains, decorations, clothing items, newspapers and flammable liquids.
3. Use a proper extension cord: Make sure you are using the proper size extension cords for space heaters. If the cord cannot handle the current, it will overheat and melt.
4. Check out the cord regularly: Inspect the heater's cord periodically to look for frayed wire or damaged insulation. Do not use a space heater with a damaged cord.
5. Where to place a space heater is important: Heaters should be placed on a flat, level surface. Do not place heaters on furniture since they may fall and become damaged or break parts in the heater.
6. Keep space heaters away from wet environments: Unless the heater is designed for use outdoors or in bathrooms, do not use in damp, wet areas.
7. Remember to turn it off: Always shut off space heaters when leaving the room and before going to bed.

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Fireplace safety tips

1. Use small bundles of wood and ensure logs are dry and split to size, as they will catch fire quicker and reduce the risk of sparks and flyaways.
2. Stay away from using junk wood, like old pieces of furniture, and be aware that anything with varnish or a finish will release toxins and create chimney build up.
3. Use a fire screen to shield the room from popping embers. Chain link or glass screens are available, but be aware that glass screens can get hot and should be protected from small children and pets.
4. Use the proper fire tools to stoke and clean your fireplace periodically. Sweep up the soot left over to avoid an uncontrollable fire next time around.
5. Remember to have your chimney cleaned at least once a year.

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How to heat your home using a wood-burning oven

1. Wood burning ovens are often used to heat a home. Read the instruction manual carefully to avoid improper installation.
2. Check for cracks and inspect legs, hinges and door seals for smooth joints and seams.
3. Use only seasoned wood for fuel, not green wood, artificial logs, or trash.
4. Keep air inlets on wood stoves open, and never restrict air supply. Otherwise you may cause creosote buildup that could lead to a chimney fire.

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Here are some additional tips that can help you heat your home as we get deeper into the winter months:

The best defense is a good offense. Install smoke alarms to warn of a fire and have carbon monoxide (CO) alarms in your home to warn about a faulty furnace, fireplace or other venting problems.

Also, be sure your family has an escape plan in place should any issues arise.