Heating Safety from Vermont.Gov

http://firesafety.vermont.gov/pubed/media/heatingsafety

Heating and cooking fires in Vermont continue to be the leading causes of home structure fires. The last US Census Showed that Vermont lead the nation in the use of wood heating per capita. The leading factor contributing to home heating fires was failure to clean creosote from solid-fueled heating equipment chimneys. All home heating systems require regular maintenance to function safely and efficiently.

The long cold Vermont winters put added stress on heating systems. Furthermore, fluctuating fuel prices can force people to use alternative heating sources that may not be safe.  An improperly installed and maintained heating appliance is dangerous and can result in carbon monoxide poisoning or be the source of a fire.  Many of these fires can be prevented through proper maintenance and proper use of heating equipment.

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http://firesafety.vermont.gov/pubed/media/heatingsafety