Orland Fire Chief Urges Precaution When Using Alternative Heat Sources

ORLAND PARK, IL — Orland Park Fire Protection District officials on Thursday cautioned homeowners on using alternative sources of heat for their homes, warning they could easily cause fires.

With the cost of heating a home rising, many homeowners have turned to alternative sources for warmth that go beyond simply using their fire places more often, officials said. They are buying wood burning stoves, kerosene heaters and electrical and gas space heaters.

Fire Chief Kevin Doyle said portable heaters can easily be misused and cause fires.

"If there is a problem regarding heating, homeowners should immediately contact an HVAC professional to ensure their homes are being heated properly," Doyle said.

"Alternative portable heating devices can be used on a temporary basis as long as they are constantly monitored, but they should never be used as the alternative to home heating.”

Doyle cautioned the public on using other alternative heat sources, such as their gas ovens and gas stoves. Some of the alternatives are popular and acceptable, but they also are a part of rising incidents in residential fires.

Before using any alternative heating source, make sure they are legal. Many municipalities prohibit the use of kerosene heaters, for example.

The following fire safety tips are offered by the Orland Fire Protection District can help the public maintain a fire safe home this winter.

• Have your heater checked to insure it is burning fuel efficiently and safely.
• Never use fuel burning appliances without proper room venting. Burning fuel (coal, kerosene, or propane, for example) can produce deadly fumes.
• Use ONLY the fuel recommended by the heater manufacturer.
• NEVER introduce a fuel into a unit not designed for that type fuel.
• NEVER close your damper with hot ashes in the fireplace.
• Have the chimney inspected annually and cleaned if necessary, especially if it has not been used for some time.

Anyone with questions or concerns about any situation involving their safety can call the Fire Department at 708-349-0074. Always dial 9-1-1 in an emergency situation.

A more detailed list is on available online.