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Safe Heating

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  • Have working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in your home. Carbon monoxide is a deadly colorless and odorless gas that builds up in the home if heating sources are not vented properly, or if a generator is used indoors.
     
  • Never use an “improvised” heat source like grill or oven as they can be fire or carbon monoxide hazards.
     
  • Make sure all heating vents are clear and properly discharging out of the house, if they are not, deadly carbon monoxide could build up in living areas. Ground level heating vents are particularly susceptible to blockage by accumulated snow, monitor your vents and clear snow and other obstructions as needed.
     
  • If you use a generator for any reason, always use it outdoors and well away from windows and doors. Exhaust from a generator is another source of carbon monoxide.
     
  • For more winter safety information visit the Vermont Health Department Winter Safety Page
     
  • Keep anything that can burn at least three feet from any heat source.
     
  • Check your heating fuel levels ahead of cold weather or storms. Deliveries can be delayed due to weather or increased demand, so ensure you have a sufficient supply.