"Each year we see an increase

in the rate of fire deaths in Georgia during the cold weather months,"

Oxendine said. "And typically 80 percent of these fire deaths occur

at home."

Oxendine offers these home

fire safety tips:

Heating equipment is one of

the leading causes of home fires in Georgia. Portable space heaters, open

fireplaces and wood stoves can be dangerous if misused. Keep them away

from curtains, draperies, and other flammable material. Make sure heaters

have adequate ventilation, and always follow the manufacturer's operating

instructions.

If you use kerosene space

heaters, make sure that each heater has an automatic shut-off in case

it tips over. Use only K-1 kerosene in a space heater; gasoline can cause

an explosion.

Smoking is a major cause of

house fires. Never smoke in bed, and keep matches and lighters away from

children.

Install an adequate number

of smoke detectors. Most fatal fires start between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m.,

while the family is asleep. The advance warning of a smoke detector may

mean the difference between life and death. Nine out of ten fire victims

are already dead before the fire department is even called, mainly from

smoke and toxic gases. If you already have smoke detectors, don't forget

to replace the batteries semi-annually, when you change your clocks.

Each household should have

a well-rehearsed family escape plan. All rooms, especially bedrooms, should

have two escape routes. Have a predetermined meeting place outside the

house so you can be sure everyone is out safely. And remember, never re-enter

a burning house for any reason.

Have a fire extinguisher readily

available.

Precautions such as these can

help homeowners protect their property and the lives of their families.