The United States Fire Administration (USFA) and the  National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) are working together to remind everyone that home fires are more prevalent in winter than in any other season. This is due in part to an increase in cooking and heating fires. Holiday decorations and winter storms that can interrupt electrical service and cause people to turn to alternative heating sources also contribute to the increased risk of fire in winter.

If you have a furnace, it's important you have it inspected to make sure that it's in good working condition. Make sure all controls and shutoffs are in proper working conditions. Leave repairs to qualified specialists. Inspect the walls and ceiling near the furnace and along the chimney line. If the wall it hot or discolored, more pile insulation or clearance may be required. Check the flue pipe and pipe seems. Make sure they are well supported, and free of holes and cracks. Soot along or around seams may be an indicator of a leak.

Check for cracks or loose bricks in the chimney. All unused flue openings should be sealed with solid masonry. Keep trash and other combustibles away from the heating system.

Never discard hot ashes inside or near the home. Place them in a metal container outside and well away from the house.

Never use a range or an oven as a supplemental heating device. Not only is it a safety hazard, it can be a source of potentially toxic fumes.

If you use an electric heater, be sure not to overload the circuit. Only use extension cords which have the necessary rating to carry the amp load. TIP: Choose an extension cord the same size or larger than the appliance electrical cord.

Avoid using electrical space heaters in bathrooms, or other areas where they may come in contact with water.

If your water pipes are frozen, never try to thaw them with a blow torch or other open flame. Use hot water or a UL labeled device such as a hand held dryer for thawing.

If there is a fire hydrant near your home you can assist the fire department by keeping the hydrant clear of snow so in the event it is needed, it can be located.

And last but not lease, make sure every level of your home has a working smoke alarm, and be sure to check and clean it on a monthly basis.

Contact your local fire department for advice if you have a question on Home Fire Safety.