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Stay Warm With A Supplemental Heat Source

To reduce home heating costs every winter Americans turn to supplemental heat sources like gas fireplaces, wood stoves, kerosene heaters and Coleman heaters. While these heat sources can help reduce energy bills and keep homes warmer, experts say users should be aware of - and take steps to mitigate - potential fire and carbon monoxide risks.

When using a supplemental heat source to save energy and money this winter, follow this advice from the Home Safety Council and Lowe's to prevent fire and CO dangers:

* Keep space heaters at least three feet from anything that can burn, including furniture, people, pets and curtains. An adult should always be present in the room when a space heater is running.

* Place at least one CO alarm in your home near sleeping areas.

* Have your home's central heating system inspected, cleaned and tuned by a trained professional who knows how to repair leaks and other problems.

* Never burn trash, cardboard boxes or Christmas trees in your fireplace or wood stove; they burn unevenly and may contain poisons or cause a fire. Only burn seasoned hardwood, like oak, ash or maple in your fireplace or wood-burning stove.

* Get your chimney inspected and cleaned every year by a professional chimney sweep.