This past week yet another home was severely damaged by a fire likely caused by a chimney problem. Our prolonged cold weather has prompted higher use of all types of heating appliances and each has its own risks and safety requirements. Wood burning stoves and chimneys require close inspection and regular maintenance. Even the high efficiency catalytic stoves can create a hazard.

With freezing temperatures and wind chills in the teens expected for the next few days, the Red Cross has issued the following cold weather and heating safety tips...