Space heaters, fireplaces can be risky to health, safety

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- The winter chill has arrived and many people are turning to alternative heat sources to keep warm.

But using these devices doesn't come without a risk.

"We have seen in the past, where people will use their stovetops or their ovens as a heating mechanism - definitely don't want you doing that. That can turn into a carbon monoxide or fire hazard," said Lisa Derderian, public information officer for Pasadena Fire Department.

Derderian said cold spells often lead people to use alternative and often dangerous heating sources. Just turning to a fireplace for the first time in months can cause serious problems.

"We have chimney fires this time of year, too, where particulates get into the chimney and catch fire. Do not turn on any heating source inside your house and leave the house. Ensure that it's working properly before you exit the home," she said.

Meanwhile, business is heating up for repair companies that are dealing with the slew of service calls for faulty furnaces.

Sergio Olmos of American Residential Services said 80 percent of the heating problems people run into this time of year are caused because of a lack of maintenance.

He said ignoring heating systems throughout the year could lead to a cold home or much worse.

"We want to make sure there's no breaches in the system because you don't want to have any carbon monoxide of any sort going into the house, so that's the main safety concern," he said.

As for space heaters, these devices also come with some caveats. Even though most now automatically turn off it they're tipped over, emergency experts warn to keep them away from curtains and make sure a towel or clothing is never tossed on top of them.

For those who may still have Christmas trees in the house, firefighters suggest that they be removed because any extra heat will dry them out faster and could catch fire if they're too close to a heat source.