Appliance upkeep part of winter home safety

Maintaining appliances heavily used during the colder months is one way homeowners can ensure winter home safety.

According to the San Diego Gas & Electric Company (SDGE), homeowners should have gas appliances examined every year by a licensed contractor. Not doing so could lead to carbon monoxide exposure, a dangerous condition that can prove fatal.

Homeowners should also perform their own maintenance of gas appliances. For example, filters should be inspected and replaced based on the manufacturer's recommendations.

"Never store anything near a gas appliance that might interfere with normal appliance airflow," SDGE said.

While some appliances are designed to heat a home, doing so with others could lead to a dangerous situation. Stoves, ovens or barbecues should never be used as a source of heat, as they can lead to carbon monoxide exposure.

Using these appliances can also present a fire hazard, especially if they are left unattended. Even products like space heaters - which are designed to warm a home - should be watched and kept away from ignition sources.