'TIS THE SEASON FOR HEAT

Holiday months are prime time for house fires, and the few flurries of snow that fell in the area earlier this week served as a reminder that cooler days are ahead.

Nearly 30 percent of all house fires and 35 percent of fire deaths in the U.S. occur in November, December and January, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

With the arrival of autumn and cooler temperatures, wood fuel heating devices are fired up.

The wood fuel devices -- fireplaces and stoves -- have increased significantly during the past decade. Unfortunately, these heating devices are also the leading cause of fires in the home.

According to NFPA reports, almost two-thirds of wood burning fire mishaps are caused by operational problems, in particular failing to clean the flue system and/or improper installation.

Many times, a fire extinguisher can be the best weapon against a home fire if the fire is small, contained, and doesn't stand between you and an exit, says Jerry Scannell, president of the National Safety Council.

The start of the heating season is also a time to pay special attention to natural gas safety, said Mike Cleary, communications spokesman from Union Electric's regional office in Jefferson City.

"We urge gas furnace owners to be especially aware of conditions that could lead to carbon monoxide poisoning, and take precautions to make sure it does not occur," he said.

John Peters, Bruce Hacker and Gary Moll, who recommend twice yearly checks of heating and air-conditioning equipment, agree.

"We've been busy the past month," said Peters, of Peters Heating and Air Conditioning Inc., 5644 State Highway 25. "People start calling us in late September and early October for their fall checks."

"Most of our customers have already had their furnaces checked," added Hacker and Moll, of Hacker Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, 414 Commercial in Cape Girardeau.

Heating and air-conditioning specialists urge inspections before lighting the furnace each year.

"All equipment -- even that two or three years old -- should be checked," said Peters. "The furnace, flue, and all connections should be checked.

"We urge gas furnace owners to be especially aware of conditions that could lead to carbon monoxide poisoning," said Cleary. "Even in small amounts, carbon monoxide can be deadly."

Other hazards can result if gas leaks from damaged pipes, said the UE spokesman. Union Electric has compiled a list of safety precautions:

Number one on the list, of course, is if you smell gas, or suspect a carbon monoxide problems, call UE anytime -- 24 hours a day -- at 1-800-552-7583. A second "must" on any list should is a smoke detector(s), in good condition, with good batteries.

Other safety precautions concerning gas appliances:

-- Make sure furnace and ductwork are properly installed and maintained.

-- Annual checks of furnaces are recommended.

-- Do not leave a vehicle running in a garage, even with the door open, as wind may direct the exhaust into the home.

-- If operating kerosene or other portable heaters in the home, make sure there is adequate ventilation.

-- Do not use charcoal grills indoors.

-- If using a fireplace, a good-quality metal screen should be kept closed in front of the fireplace whenever it's in use.

-- Never, but never, refresh a fire with gasoline, kerosene or other flammable or combustible liquid.

Inspect your fireplace, stove and chimney at least once a year.

-- Make sure the exhaust systems in vehicles are functioning properly. If trapped in a car for an extended time because of inclement weather, make sure the car's tailpipe is free of snow, and only run the engine and heater when necessary and only for short periods.

-- Consider purchasing a carbon monoxide detector.

Other fire-safety precautions:

-- Throw away any lights with cracked or frayed cords.

-- Don't overload electrical outlets.

-- Don't run extension cords under carpets, across doorways or near heaters.

-- Unplug all lights before leaving home or going to sleep.

-- Never put candles in windows or near exits.

-- Don't leave burning candles unattended.

-- Choose a freshly cut holiday tree; dry ones are more likely to catch fire.

-- Be sure to water the tree promptly and check the water level in the stand every day.

-- After a party, check on and behind cushions and furniture for smoldering cigarette butts.

-- Empty ashtrays often, wetting their contents.