North Country Insurance Professionals, based in Waddington, warn of increase safety risks when heating this fall and winter.

The company says they offer the following home maintenance safety tips:

• Heating system: it is important to have your heating system inspected by a professional technician to ensure it functions properly all winter. Replace the filter at the start of the heating season and replace regularly.

• Fireplaces and wood stoves: have your chimney or wood stove inspected and cleaned annually by a certified chimney sweep. Check and make sure all stove pipes are clean and clear. Maintain proper clearance around fireplaces and wood stoves and keep the area clear of combustible material.

• Smoke detectors and fire extinguishers aid kits: change batteries in smoke detectors when the clocks change at the end of Daylight Savings Time.

This is also an excellent time to review your fire escape route and centralized meeting place with your family.