DE PERE, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – As the season starts to change and the temperature continues to drop, it’s important to make sure the heating equipment in your home is working properly.
De Pere Fire Chief Alan Matzke tells FOX 11 having your equipment serviced by a professional on a regular basis can help you avoid fires.
“According to the National Fire Fighter Association the number one cause for fires is cooking, the number two cause is heating equipment. We are talking about all forms of heating like furnaces, water heaters, and fireplaces.”
Matzke said last winter they responded to 30 calls where heating equipment was listed as the cause for the fire.
He also says they investigated 35 incidents where carbon monoxide was present, another common problem during this time of year.
“So those signs of carbon monoxide are nausea, dizziness, and headache, those are all indications that the potential exists and we need you to call right away.”
Greg Van Den Elzen, from Van’s One Hour Heating and Air Conditioning, said they’ve already started servicing equipment ahead of the winter.
“Things we will be looking at during a tune-up are inspecting the venting, heat exchangers, inspecting the ductwork system, and checking to see if there are carbon monoxide monitors on every level of your home and in the bedrooms.”
The De Pere Fire Department is also holding an open house at their station Saturday, where they will be sharing more safety tips for the winter.
