State Fire Marshal stresses ​heating equipment and carbon monoxide safety

Posted on January 26, 2022
Carbon Monoxide Detector
Illinois fire departments responded to nearly 11,000 carbon monoxide leaks in 2020. (WJBC file photo)

By IIS Radio

SPRINGFIELD – As you’re trying to stay warm this winter, the Illinois State Fire Marshal’s office has a few safety tips to keep in mind.

There are plenty of hazards when it comes to heating your home so it’s important to stay on top of things like having your furnace serviced regularly says fire marshal spokesperson JC Fultz.

“You should also make sure the chimney and other heating devices are checked and properly installed,” said Fultz. “And remember space heaters keep you a little bit warmer, but they need space, and nearly half of all home heating fires occur in the months of December, January and Feburary.”

Another concern is carbon monoxide poisoning, so Fultz says you should install and check CO detectors regularly.

Illinois fire departments responded to nearly 11,000 carbon monoxide leaks in 2020.

WJBC News can be reached at [email protected]

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