While the millennium reality check may not be over, the generators purchased will now more likely be used during storm-related power outages.

So, we are wondering if any of you new generator owners have tested your new tool, and if you are heeding the safety advice concerning proper fuel storage and carbon monoxide exhaust poisoning.

If you own a generator, test it now, before you need it, then teach everyone in the house what they will need to know if you are not there in an emergency.

Today, again with the help of Aberdeen Fire Department Chief Dave Carlberg, we're offering some tips about keeping you and your house safe, not only when the power goes out, but all the time.

More than a third of the house fires in the country occur during the months of December, January and February. This increase comes primarily from the need for constant heat.

This time of year many houses, especially those having inadequate insulation and expensive sources of heat, are supplemented with alternative heat sources. Box heaters on long, skinny cords, or fires in an old trash burner connected to an even older mid-wall chimney. While both of these examples are extreme hazards they are not the only ones you need to be aware of.

If you require additional heat this winter it's important to follow these home heating safety tips:

• Do not use the kitchen oven to heat your home. In addition to being a fire hazard it can be a real burn hazard to small children.
• Space heaters need their space. Keep heaters at least 3 feet away from anything combustible and don't run them on an extension cord.
• Make sure alternative heaters have "tip switches." These tip switches are designed to automatically turn off the heater in the event they tip over.
• Remember to keep all combustible liquids away from heat sources.
• Avoid using combustible fuel type heaters that do not have an exhaust vent to the outside.
• Make sure wood stoves are properly installed and at least 3 feet away from combustible materials. Ensure they have the proper floor support, adequate ventilation and a clean chimney.
• Use a glass or metal screen in front of your fireplace to prevent sparks from igniting carpets, furniture or other combustible items.

• Avoid using your old mid-wall chimney. You know, the one with a six-inch hole in the wall and a sloped wall at the bottom.

Here are some additional safety tips for you and your home.

• Have plenty of flashlights and extra batteries on hand in case of a power outage.

• Avoid using candles for emergency lighting if possible.

• In case of power failure, plan to use alternative cooking devices according to the manufacture's instructions.

• Never use open flames or grills indoors, including the garage. Have you ever seen what a hot barbecue too close to a window or exterior wall can do?

• For those who feel the need to stock disaster supplies, remember that it is extremely dangerous to stockpile any liquid fuels such as gasoline, kerosene or lantern fluid in the house or garage. An out building is much safer.

• Some smoke alarms may be dependent on your home's electrical service and could be inoperative during a power outage or in an electrical fire. Make sure your electric smoke alarms have battery backups.
• With any smoke alarm, install fresh batteries when needed. The smoke alarm should beep to tell you when batteries are getting low.
• Smoke alarms should be installed on every level of your home. We recommend them in every bedroom, hall and stair area.
• All smoke alarms should be tested monthly.

• Make a fire plan with your children and practice the plan

Do you have more questions about how to fireproof your home? Call your local fire department during business hours. Some fire departments will even conduct a fire safety inspection of your house free.

Dave Murnen and Pat Beaty are construction specialists at Aberdeen Neighborhood Housing Services, a non-profit organization committed to creating safe and affordable housing for all residents of Grays Harbor County. Do you have questions about home repair, remodeling or becoming a homeowner? Call us at 533-7828, write us at P.O. Box 407, or visit us at 710 E. Market St. in Aberdeen.