Officials urge residents to heat homes safely this winter

As colder months approach, the Gwinnett County government wants to emphasize the importance of safety while heating your home with alternate heating methods if power outages become a concern.

Here’s a list of essential tips to help you stay safe and warm this winter:

• Fireplaces need to be cleaned out frequently, and chimneys should be inspected for obstructions and cracks to prevent deadly chimney and roof fires
• Only buy space and kerosene heaters evaluated by a nationally recognized laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories or UL
• Never use generators in homes, garages, basements, crawl spaces, or other enclosed or partially enclosed areas, even with ventilation
  

Learn more about home heating safety tips at GwinnettSafety411.com or subscribe to Gwinnett County’s Prevention 365 newsletter for fire and lifesaving topics.