Heating Tips
Furnace Maintenance
An improperly maintained furnace can cause fires and produce deadly
quantities of carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, and
tasteless gas that can gradually overcome a person. Symptoms of carbon monoxide
poisoning can resemble the flu and include headaches, dizziness and nausea. The
Plymouth Community Fire Department recommends that residents consider the
following home heating safety tips.
Be sure that your furnace is clean and the motor is properly
lubricated. Filters should be changed at least monthly.
Gas furnaces should be serviced at least every two years. Hot
water and steam systems should be checked annually for corrosion, pressure and
proper operation.
Fireplaces should be checked for loose mortar and cracks around
the brick. The fireplace chimney should be cleaned at least annually. Be sure to
keep fire doors or screen in place and dispose of ashes in fire proof
containers. Wood burning stoves and their exhaust pipes should be checked for
weakening, cracks or leaks.
Space heaters should be cleaned and checked for proper
operation. They should be operated in well ventilated areas and placed out of
the path of travel.
Keep children away from heat producing appliances and store
combustibles away from stoves and fireplaces.
Always keep a fire extinguisher on hand and know how and when to
use it.
For additional information, contact the Community Fire
Department at (734) 453-3840.
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