Fire officials want to remind residents that they will respond to an increase in structure fires until after the new year. It's in large part due to people heating up their homes, once the fall and winter months come in.
Officials have some key safety tips to remind you to do it properly, to prevent that. Chief Charles Moore with the Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District (TMFPD) says fireplace ash and space heaters are two of the biggest culprits.
That's why its important to clean your chimney flues out at least once annually. Mix fireplace ash with water and let it sit for three days before throwing it away.
Space heaters should only be used as a supplemental heat source and should not be left on overnight. They should also be plugged directly into a wall outlet, not in an extension cord or even a multi-plug.
Keep them at least three feet away from any combustibles. It's also important to check your smoke alarms this time of year and make sure the batteries are working.Â
If you'd like more information about fire prevention, and how to obtain a free ash can from TMFPD, click here.
