The holidays are just about over, but there's still several months of winter weather ahead. To combat the cold we often use our fireplaces and heaters to keep warm. It's important to remember to take precautions to reduce fire danger around your home. Here are some tips to keep you safe:

•Never burn charcoal or use a hibachi in your fireplace. Both produce deadly carbon monoxide.

•Protect against sparks by enclosing a fireplace’s opening with glass doors or a sturdy screen.

•Never use lighter fluid or other flammable liquids to start a fire.

•Burn only dry seasoned wood.

•Have your fireplace inspected annually.

•Keep flammables such as newspapers, magazines, rugs and carpeting away from fireplace.

•Never leave a fire unattended.

•Put out each fire before going to bed.

•Keeping candles away from small children.

•Do not leave candles unattended and make sure to blow them out before going to bed.

Always keep a fire extinguisher on hand. If you already have one, make sure you check it from time to time to make sure it is still working properly.