Superior Fire department warns about heating dangers

Heating season is here and the Superior Volunteer Fire Department wants you to have a safe winter. Regardless of the heating fuel you use, there are some simple safety precautions you should take. It is essential that you have working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. If you haven’t done so recently, make sure you replace the batteries and test the alarms. These devices save lives.

Many Mineral County residents heat with wood. Wood is an abundant, affordable and locally sourced. It can also be dangerous if not handled properly. It is essential that you make sure your wood heating device is installed according to manufacturer’s recommendations and is in good condition. Stove pipes and chimneys should be cleaned and inspected regularly for damage and corrosion. What starts as a chimney fire can mean the loss of your home. It is essential that stoves be installed with proper clearances as recommended by the manufacturer. Non-combustible floor shields are required under and out from the edges of stoves and fireplaces to protect floors from heat and sparks. Shields may also be used to reduce wall and ceiling clearances but must meet manufacturer’s recommendations. It is essential that reduced clearance shields have an air gap between the shield and combustible wall. Gypsum wallboard does not work as a shield.

If you use some other heating fuel such as oil or propane, your equipment should be inspected and serviced every year. Fire boxes and flues deteriorate over time. Furnace vents can also deteriorate, pull loose or otherwise fail. Failure of any of these components can allow odorless and deadly carbon monoxide to leak into your home. The best news is that an annual service of your heating equipment can often pay for itself in improved efficiency.

The Superior Volunteer Fire Department serves the Town of Superior and Superior Rural Fire District. Volunteers are needed and accepted from all areas covered as well as surrounding areas not covered by other departments.