Forecasts show colder weather is again right around the corner, which means the chance of a house fire increases.

A house fire is undoubtedly a tragic a traumatic event for an entire family.

We may not have another cold snap like last weeks this year, but if we do, the Alabama Department of Public Health offers these safety tips for keeping your home warm and safe over winter.

Make sure space heaters carry the mark of an independent testing laboratory and are

legal for use in your community.

* Install your space heater according to manufacturer's instructions or applicable codes,

consider professional installation.

* Plug your electric-powered space heater into an outlet with sufficient capacity and never into an extension cord.

* Use the proper fuel as well as the proper grade for your liquid-fueled space heater.

Refuel only in a well-ventilated area and when the equipment is cool.

* In your fireplace or wood stove, use only dry, seasoned wood to avoid the build-up of creosote.

* Use only paper or kindling wood, not a flammable liquid, to start the fire. Do not use artificial logs in wood stoves.

* Make sure your fireplace has a sturdy screen to prevent sparks from flying into the room.