Heat up your home safely once the temperatures drop.

Now that the weather is cooling down, it is time to turn on your heater and light your fireplace! After all, there is nothing quite like gathering around a fire on a cold winter’s night. While heaters and fireplaces can keep you warm in the winter temperatures, they can also have some serious safety issues.

Keep these tips in mind to ensure that your home stays safe and warm this season!

• Fireplace – Hire a professional to inspect and clean out your fireplace and chimney before it gets too cold. Built up creosote in the chimney can easily cause a fire and push dangerous carbon monoxide back into your home. Only burn wood in your fireplace, not paper or pine boughs. Never use flammable liquids, such as gasoline or lighter fluid! Do not throw ornamental wrapping paper in your fireplace during the holidays because it has toxins that should not be burned in your home.
• Portable space heaters – Ensure that all portable space heaters are at least three feet away from any flammable material, such as clothing, bedding, wallpaper, and furniture. Never use portable heaters to dry wet clothing. Always turn off the heater when you are leaving the room for a while and before you go to bed.
• Alarms – Make sure that you have smoke and carbon monoxide detectors throughout your home. Check the detectors at least once a month, especially when you are using the fireplace or a portable heater. Replace any alarms that are outdated or are not working properly.

Most importantly, make sure that you have the right amount of homeowners insurance to provide you with the right protection this season. Visit the professionals at Martplan Insurance Agency to secure the right homeowners insurance for your needs and budget in La Habra and surrounding cities in California.