Furnaces - Indoor Safety

Purpose - Furnaces provide home heating using natural gas, electricity, fuel oil, or wood.

Dangers - Fire, explosion, natural gas leaks, and carbon monoxide poisoning.

Prevention

• Install and maintain smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
• Have an eight-point furnace inspection annually.
• Inspect flues and chimneys annually.
• Keep all-purpose fire extinguishers on each floor of your home. Check them regularly. Know how to use them.

Emergency Follow the emergency procedures if:

• You suspect carbon monoxide poisoning.
• There is a fire.
• You smell gas.

The Eight Point Furnace Checklist

1. Inspect chimney for obstructions and soot buildup.
2. Replace rusted vent pipes.
3. Check flame for proper blue color.
4. Check for soot in burning areas and vents.
5. Clean the burner area. Keep furnace area clear of debris.
6. Replace or clean air filters.
7. Replace cracked or frayed blower belts.
8. Lubricate motors, blowers and water pumps according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Safety Tips

• Know the location of gas and oil shutoff valves, and how to use them.
• Have your furnace maintained by a qualified repair service.
• Never store paints, thinners, or other solvents near your furnace.
• Keep upstairs heating and return air duct openings clear.
• Never hang things from gas pipes or fuel oil pipes.
• Use kitchen exhaust fans only sparingly during heating season.
• Don't use whole-house fans during the heating season.
• Teach your children what to do in an emergency.