MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP - Last week the state of Michigan saw record breaking low temperatures all across the state.

According to the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) at least half of home heating fires occur in the months of December, January and February. Ensuring that you are heating your home safely can prevent these accidents from happening.

The NFPA suggest that all heating equipment be checked out by a professional, make sure you are testing your smoke alarms at least once a month, as well as turning of portable heaters when going to bed.

Bill Preise, Chief of Training and EMS Operations of the Meridian Township Fire Department said, “make sure you don't leave space heaters unattended, and make sure you don't overload electrical circuits.”

Aside from making sure your home is properly heated, using precautions to help keep yourself warm in low temperatures is also important.

“Make sure you’re going out in layered clothing and spending as little time as possible outside,” said Preise.