The days are getting shorter and the nights are getting colder. Soon it will be time to light the furnace for the winter and start having fires in the fireplace. Before heating the home, check the heater and fireplace to make sure they are safe to use.

“Malfunctioning heaters and fireplaces are common causes for house fires,” said Capt. Ron Oatman of the Ventura County Fire Department, “but with a simple inspection and a little maintenance, they can both make your home more comfortable during the winter months.”

To operate efficiently, gas furnaces need a clean, clear air flow. Lint and dust can clog furnace intakes, and items stored around furnaces can block air flow into the heater. Change the furnace filters regularly and move any items that may obstruct the air flow. Consider installing a carbon monoxide alarm.

“Carbon monoxide is colorless, odorless, invisible, and it can kill you,” said Oatman. “It occurs when natural gas, wood and other fuels do not burn completely, so we often encounter it when a heater or fireplace isn’t working properly.”

Chimneys should be professionally inspected every year and cleaned if necessary. Before lighting a fire in the fireplace, check to be sure the flue is in the open position and be sure to always use a fire screen to protect the interior of the home from sparks. Install a spark arrester on the top of the chimney to protect the roof.

“Even your firewood can make a difference,” said Oatman. “Hardwood burns long, hot and bright. Softer woods burn faster and often contain pitch that can sputter and scatter sparks.”

Firewood should be cut to fit the fireplace. It should never extend outside of the fireplace. And once the fire is going, be sure to use proper fireplace tools. Never use hands or short-handled tools.

For more fire safety tips, visit www.fire.countyofventura.org.