Sister Bay/Liberty Grove Fire Chief Chris Hecht hopes homeowners use extra caution when it comes to staying warm inside their homes this winter. Over 25,000 chimney fires occur nationally every year while space heaters account for a third of all winter house fires. Hecht says taking the proper steps before using your fireplace or space heater can help prevent a disaster from occurring.

Hecht also advises people to not use equipment intended for outdoor use like grills to warm your home as they could be not just a fire risk, but they can also increase your exposure to carbon monoxide.