Stay Warm and Safe This Winter As The Winter Cold Sets In

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Stay Warm and Safe This Winter As The Winter Cold Sets In: "

Stay Warm This Winter

Stay warm and safe this winter As the winter cold sets in, the City of Amsterdam Building and Zoning Division urges residents to use portable heating devices, fireplaces and wood stoves safely. “With the high cost of fuel, many people may be purchasing a space heater or adding a fireplace or wood-burning stove to heat their home,” says the Division. “When not used or installed properly, these appliances can present serious safety hazards.” Listed Portable heaters can be an affordable supplement but may not be used as a primary heating source. However, when used improperly, space heaters can cause carbon monoxide poisoning, fire and even death. “Keep the area around the heater clear at all times with at least three feet of open space around the unit so that nothing catches fire, “says the Division”. Supervise the heater when it’s on, especially when children and pets are nearby, and turn the heater off when you leave the room. Also, don’t leave the heater on at night.” Other tips include filling approved type kerosene heaters outside so that fumes and accidental spills don’t cause a fire. Also, be sure you’ve installed smoke detectors and a carbon monoxide detector and that they are working properly.

If you’re in the market for a fireplace or wood-burning stove, contact the City Building and Zoning Division first to obtain a permit before installation and insure an inspection by a trained professional. “We recommend you purchase a fireplace or wood-burning stove that is labeled by an approved testing and inspection agency, “says the Division”. Work with your contractor to find the best interior location. That decision may be based on the chimney’s location or not depending on the unit. Once installed, inspected and approved, the homeowner needs to read the instruction manual carefully to understand how the fireplace or wood-burning stove works. The Division also suggests contacting your insurance agent. Most insurance companies require a rider to the homeowners’ policy and a copy of the final inspection report.

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