CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Fla.- According to the National Fire Protection Association, in 2009, heating equipment was involved in an estimated 58,900 reported U.S. home structure fires. These fires were responsible for 480 civilian deaths, 1,520 civilian injuries and $1.1 billion in direct property damage. They for 18 percent of all reported home fires.

Space heaters, whether portable or stationary, accounted for one-third of home heating fires and four out of five of home heating fire deaths.

With the cold weather upon us Charlotte County Fire/EMS reminds residents to follow the below safety tips to stay safe and eliminate the chance of fire, injury and death.

*Before utilizing your electric portable space heater, examine the space heater and check for frayed wires or loose connections. Never use a heater if the cords are frayed or damaged.

*Placement of the space heater is extremely important. Place your space heater at least three feet away from anything that can burn, such as paper, furniture, curtains or any type of fabric.

*Never place your heater on a rug. Space heaters should be placed in an area away from high traffic in your home and in a "kid and pet free zone."

*Keep your heater away from any water source and never touch an electric heater if you are wet.Remember to unplug the heater if the heater is not in use, or if you leave your home.

*Residents are reminded to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed.Wait at least five minutes after you turn off your heater before moving it to another area to avoid injuries.

If you are using the fireplace in your home, remember to prepare your fireplace by cleaning out any remaining ashes from prior fires by placing the ashes into a metal container. Open the damper or flue before lighting the fire. Never use an accelerant such as gasoline or lighter fluid, the vapor from these accelerants can travel the length of the room and explode.

Always use a fireplace screen to keep sparks from escaping. As with a portable heater, you will want place anything that can burn, such as paper, or any type of fabric at least three feet away from the fireplace.

Resident are also advised using your oven to heat your home is dangerous and ovens should not be used to heat a room or home.

Most importantly, residents are reminded to test smoke alarms to make sure they are in working order.