There is something about the winter months and curling up with a good book by the fireplace. But did you know that heating equipment is one of the leading causes of home fire deaths? 

Heating, winter storms, holiday decorations and candles all contribute to an increased risk of fire during the winter months.

In fact, home fires occur more in winter than in any other season. As you stay cozy and warm this winter, the National Fire Protection Association also stresses the importance of being fire smart.

The association recommends the following tips:

• Keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet from any heat sources like fireplaces, wood stoves, radiators or space heaters.

• Plug only one heat-producing appliance (like a space heater) into an electrical outlet at a time.

• Keep portable generators outside, away from windows, and as far away from your home as possible.

• Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room. Ashes should be cool before putting them in a metal container. Keep the container a safe distance away from your home.

• Have a qualified professional clean and inspect your chimney and vents every year.

• Install carbon monoxide alarms and smoke detectors, and test them once a month.

• Never use your oven to heat your home.

• Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed.

• Have a qualified professional install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters or central heating equipment according to the local codes and manufacturer’s instructions.

For more fire prevention tips and information, visit www.nfpa.org.