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In the US, heating sources are one of the leading causes of residential
fires, and with colder weather on the way, many Madison residents will
be turning on heating systems that have not been used since Spring.
Most fires involving furnaces take place at night when people are
asleep. As such the most important step in home heating safety is to
make sure your smoke detectors are in working condition.
Wisconsin state law requires a smoke detector on each floor level,
and one should also be installed in the area adjacent to your
furnace.
The next most important step in home heating safety is to make
sure that your furnace is operating properly and safely, and furnace
flues, pipes, and chimneys should be inspected as well. Madison Gas
and Electric, Alliant Energy, or a heating contractor
should be contacted if you have questions or problems regarding the
heating unit in your home. In homes with gas furnaces, carbon
monoxide detectors are strongly recommended.
Finally, filters should be changed at the beginning of the
heating season and then checked monthly to make sure there is
adequate air flow.
For additional information on specific heating equipment click on
the links below:
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