Both are good sources of winter heat, but fire requires careful attention.

1. Burn only seasoned hardwood like oak, ash or maple.
2. Do not burn trash, cardboard boxes or Christmas trees because these items burn unevenly.
3. Have a professional chimney sweep inspect chimneys every year to identify any cracks, blockages, leaks or build-up that could start a fire.
4. Open flues before fireplaces are used.
5. Use sturdy screens or glass doors to keep embers inside fireplaces.
6. Install at least one smoke alarm on every level of your home and inside or near sleeping areas.
7. Keep young children away from working wood stoves and heaters to avoid contact burn injuries.