Baton Rouge firefighters urge residents to check heaters, generators before cold weather moves in

BATON ROUGE - With colder temperatures on the way, the Baton Rouge Fire Department is reminding residents to make sure their heating sources are ready, and safe before the chill sets in.

Public Information Officer Justin Hill says this time of year typically brings an uptick in house fires caused by heating appliances.

“During that time of year, more people are going to be using heating appliances to keep warm, we do see a slight uptick in fires caused by heating appliances,” Hill said.

Hill says many of those fires can be prevented with a few simple steps. Homeowners should check their furnaces and have them inspected by a professional before turning them on for the season.

“Make sure your furnace is in good working order,” Hill said. “Have it checked out by a professional.”

Fire off