MOULTRIE — Colquitt County may not be a winter wonderland like many areas up North, but cooler temperatures will make their way down South soon. As people try to stay warm, however, comes a greater risk for a house fire.

As residents prepare for cooler weather, the Moultrie Fire Department recommends everyone check their heating systems before being used.

“As the cooler weather approaches,” Moultrie Fire Department Fire Marshall Capt. Lavon Cooper said, “the fire department encourages people to service their heating systems. Check to be sure it works properly before use.”

Heat sources are the number two most common cause of fire during winter months, Cooper said. Keeping all heating devices maintained and clear of items that can catch on fire are the best way to prevent a fire.

Cooper said keep any combustible materials at least 36 inches away from any heating source. The source should also never be left in a room unattended and away from small children and pets.

Even with a central heating system, there are precautions to take that can prevent a fire, Cooper said. Make sure the system is serviced and maintained by a licensed serviceman annually.

When turning on the heating system for the first time, there is often a smoke smell coming from the vents. Cooper said this is normal, as the dust collected on the unit is burned off, and the smell should be cleared out within a couple of hours.

For those who use a wood heater, such as a fireplace, to warm their homes, Cooper said a person needs to clean the chimneys and flues on an annual basis. Use only dry, seasoned wood in the fire, use a spark screen or cover to prevent hot embers from going out of the fireplace, handle any wood with the proper tools and have a portable fire extinguisher nearby. To clean out the fireplace, dispose of the ashes properly only after they have cooled.

To prevent a fire from spreading out of the chimney, Cooper said to clean roofs of all dry leaves and pine straw. Check the chimney for any gaps or holes where hot embers can escape and go onto the roof.

Cooper said anyone who uses a kerosene heating device should only use A-1 kerosene as fuel and never store the kerosene indoors. When filling a kerosene lamp, fill it outdoors in a well-ventilated area and never fill it while it is hot.

When using an electric space heater, Cooper said to use a UL-listed safe heater and check the electric cord for any damage. Do not use an extension cord with the space heater, and call an authorized service or repairman for any problems with the heater.

Anyone who uses an electric blanket as they go to bed need to be sure and keep moisture away from the blanket, Cooper said. Check the cord for any damage to it, and be sure to unplug the cord when not using the blanket.