Will County Gazette

As temperatures drop in the region, Park Forest fire officials are advising residents to take steps to ensure furnace safety as the heating season begins.

Fire Chief Mark Cotrano urged homeowners to have their heating systems inspected and cleaned by a qualified professional before use. “After sitting idle all summer, your furnace could have dust buildup or mechanical issues that aren’t immediately noticeable,” Cotrano said. “A professional inspection can help prevent problems like carbon monoxide leaks or even fires once you turn on the heat.”

Cotrano also recommended that residents check and replace furnace filters to maintain air quality and system efficiency. “A dirty filter can cause your furnace to work harder than it needs to, wasting energy and potentially leading to overheating,” Cotrano said.

For those who use space heaters, Cotrano stressed the need to keep them at least three feet away from anything flammable such as curtains or bedding. He cautioned against leaving space heaters unattended or plugged in while sleeping. “Space heaters are one of the leading causes of home heating fires,” Cotrano said. “If you use one, make sure it has an automatic shut-off feature and is placed on a flat, stable surface.”

The Park Forest Fire Department is conducting a community outreach campaign this week, installing smoke detectors in local homes. Firefighters are visiting residents to ensure alarms are working and to educate them on regular testing. “Working smoke detectors save lives,” Cotrano said. “They give you those crucial extra seconds to escape if there’s a fire. We want to make sure every home in Park Forest is protected before the winter heating season really sets in.”

Residents who wish to receive a free smoke detector or schedule an installation can contact the Park Forest Fire Department at (708) 748-5605.