Winter fire safety Published Dec. 14, 2011 375th Civil Engineer Squadron SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. -- Winter and colder temperatures are upon us and the season brings additional fire safety concerns. It is time for furnaces to kick on, and space heaters and candles to appear. To minimize winter fire safety risks follow fire safety tips below throughout the winter months. Furnaces Furnaces should have regular maintenance to operate properly. Be sure all furnace controls and emergency shutoffs are in proper working condition. Do not attempt repairs yourself unless you are qualified. Keep trash and other combustibles away from the heating system. Leave furnace repairs to qualified specialists. Electric space heaters Space heaters need their space! Keep combustibles at least three feet away from space heaters. Space heaters should have a thermostat control mechanism with a safety tip over switch. Keep trash and other combustibles away from the heating system. Avoid using electric space heater in bathrooms, or other areas where water exposure is present. Heaters are not dryers or tables. Don't dry or store objects on top of your heater. Plug space heaters directly into wall outlets--not surge protectors. Candles Always put candles in non-tip candleholders before you light them, and do not burn candles near decorations or displays. Keep candles well away from curtains, and never put candles in windows or near exits. Never leave candles burning unattended or within reach of small children, or in the path of the family pet. Use of candles is prohibited on-base in dormitories, lodging and work areas (wicks are not to be burnt). Downed power lines Another common winter hazard is power lines being downed due to ice storms or high winds. Wires should always be considered live and dangerous and must be avoided. Please notify the fire department immediately. Other fire safety tips Never use a range or an oven as a supplementary heating devise. Not only is it a fire hazard, it can potentially be a source of carbon monoxide. Frozen water pipes? Never try to thaw them with a blow torch or other open flame (the pipe could conduct the heat and ignite the wall structure inside the wall space). Use hot water or a UL-labeled device such as a hand-held dryer for thawing, or contact Housing Maintenance. If windows are used as emergency exits in your home, practice using them in the event fire should strike. Be sure that all windows open easily. Home escape ladders are recommended. If there is a fire hydrant near your place of work or home, keep it clear of snow for easy access. Ensure smoke detectors are operational and tested monthly.