Countywide : Residents Reminded to Check Safety of Furnaces

The Orange County Fire Department is asking homeowners to prevent fires during the winter by maintaining chimneys and furnaces.

Fire officials recommend the following:

* Chimneys should be cleaned every year by a reputable professionals. Creosote, a flammable oily build-up commonly found in chimney chutes, is a contributing factor to some house fires.

Older chimneys should be inspected carefully for cracks and flaws. Such small openings can allow fire to seep into walls and onto roofs.

* All chimneys should have a spark arresters to prevent sparks from landing on the roof. Shaped like a chimney cap with a mesh screen to prevent sparks from escaping, spark arresters can be purchased at most hardware stores.

Fire officials recommend against purchasing a flat spark arrester screen, where tree leaves and branches can settle.

* Trim tree branches away from the chimney area. Keep dry leaves and trash off the roof.

* Keep a protective screen on the fireplace hearth to prevent flying sparks from igniting carpet and furniture.

* Furnaces should be completely cleaned every year with a vacuum cleaner and all filters replaced. An unusual noise, odor or erratic performance should be repaired promptly.

* The gas company will inspect and adjust all natural gas fire equipment at no charge.

* Be careful to keep electric space heaters at least three feet from any paper, clothing, furniture or flammable liquids.

For information about preventive fire measures at home, call the Orange County Fire Department at (714) 744-0496.