Cold weather may not bring fire safety to mind, but home fires are more prevalent in winter than in any other season. Alternate heating sources, such as space heaters and generators, an increase in cooking, heating fires, and electronically wired decorations all contribute to increased fire danger during the winter months.   To help minimize your risk, follow these helpful tips:

• Test smoke detectors every month
• Keep portable heaters away from combustible materials
• Run extension cords in low-traffic areas
• Never overload circuits
• Plan an escape route with everyone in your family
• Have your chimney inspected and cleaned at least once a year