When cold weather moves in, South Carolinians tend to turn on space heaters or a fireplace for warmth.

State Fire Marshal Jonathan Jones urges citizens to be especially careful of residential fires and fire deaths.

“Each season brings with it changes in the weather and our daily habits,” Jones said. “However, the risk of fire always increases any time heaters are turned on and fireplaces are in use.”

More home fires occur during the winter months than during any other part of the year, Jones said.

Last year, there were 29 fatal fires resulting in 33 fire deaths in SC. 10 were heating related.

Keep your family safe by:

• Only using kerosene heaters and space heaters according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Inspect the heater for cracked or broken plugs. If frayed, worn, or damaged, do not use the heater.

Keep the unit on a flat surface at least 3  feet away from anything that can burn. Don’t let pets or children play too close to the heater.

• Never leave heaters unattended.

• Refuel a kerosene heater outdoors.

• Always plug the space heater directly into the wall, not an extension cord or power strip; unplug when not in use.

• Don’t use either to dry wet clothing.

• Never use heating pads or electric blankets while sleeping.

• Portable generators produce odorless and deadly carbon monoxide. Follow manufacturer’s instructions to prevent death from carbon monoxide. Never use a generator indoors.

• Keep lit candles out of reach of children and pets. Never use a candle if oxygen is used in the home. Use sturdy candle holders and extinguish upon leaving a room or going to sleep.

• Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room. Only burn seasoned and dried wood.

• Avoid hanging decorations around the fireplace area.

• Never burn wrapping paper in a fireplace.

• Never put ashes in a cardboard box or bag.

• Chimneys should be cleaned and inspected for creosote every year by a qualified professional.

• Check your smoke alarms. If any of the alarms are more than 10 years old, they need to be replaced.