WASHINGTON— Chilly temperatures have many people turning up the thermostat early this year.

But some heating methods such as wood burning stoves, fireplaces and portable heaters are a real fire risk if not used properly.

In fact, alternative heating methods are the second leading cause of residential fires and fire-related deaths. The Prince William County fire department has some tips for keeping your family safe while staying warm this winter.

Portable heaters, like space heaters and kerosene heaters, account for 45 percent of all fatal home-heating fires. One major reason is that they’re placed too close to flammable objects, so keep anything that has the potential to burn at least three feet away.

Never use space heaters with damaged or frayed extension cords and look for models that automatically turn off if they tip over.

Clean kerosene heaters and replace the wick every year. Don’t use kerosene heaters in small areas because of the potential for carbon monoxide poisoning, and never fill them with gas or camp-stove fuel.

Make sure to keep fireplaces and wood-burning stoves clean.  Your fireplace should be cleaned each year by a certified chimney specialist. Remove ashes in a covered metal container and place them at least 10 feet from you house or other buildings. Only use seasoned wood and never use flammable liquids to start a fire.

Finally, install smoke alarms and sprinklers to significantly increase your chances of surviving a fire in your home.