By Tom Kaufman

Winter is just around the corner, and the Upper Pine River Fire Protection District has some suggestions to keep everyone safe this year.

Before you light that first fire in the fireplace, you should have it inspected along with the chimney. The chimney should be cleaned at least twice each year and more often if you use wood that is not well seasoned and dry. A certified chimney inspector can be located in the yellow pages of your telephone directory.

Portable heaters should be turned off when you leave the room. They need to have 3 feet of clearance around them from any combustible materials. Never place anything over a portable heater to dry it out! It needs to be plugged directly into a wall outlet without the use of an extension cord and check the cord for wear or loose plug-ins. Portable heaters should have an automatic shut off that will turn it off if it accidently gets turned over.

Carbon monoxide poisoning in the winter can be fatal. Every year over 150 people die from carbon monoxide poisoning in America. A carbon monoxide detector should be installed in every home where you use any gas appliances, have a fireplace or have an attached garage. Early symptoms of CO poisoning include: headache, fatigue, shortness of breath, nausea and dizziness without a fever. If you think you may be experiencing a leak please contact the fire department to have it inspected.

Propane tanks need to be kept clear of snow and ice. Maintain access to the tanks so they can be shut off in the event of an emergency. Check the location where the propane enters the home and keep it clear of snow and ice as well. Snow falling off the roof can damage pipes, meters, and valves causing a serious problem. Call your propane provider if you have any question about where the gas enters your home. To avoid gas fumes from becoming trapped in your home, please make sure that your chimney, rooftop, and all gas appliances vented through the roof remain clear of snow and ice.

This is the time of the year to replace the batteries in your smoke detector. Smoke detectors older than 10 years need to be replaced as well. The National Fire Protection Association reminds everyone this year to "Hear the Beep Where you Sleep." In other words, you should have a working smoke detector in every bedroom and one outside in the hallway on each level of the house including the basement.

Lastly, the fire department recommends that each household has an emergency kit that includes a flashlight, spare candles, a portable radio, an emergency blanket and a first aid kit. Be safe and as always, call the fire department if you have any safety questions concerning your home.

Tom Kaufman is the fire marsal with Upper Pine River Fire Protection District.