Knoxville Fire Chief Jim Mitchell tells KNIA/KRLS News there are ways citizens can help fire departments to prevent fire around Marion County during the winter months.

He suggests regular cleanings for chimneys and checking electrical heat sources like space heaters to make sure they have been certified safe by Underwriters Laboratory (UL) . Regular cleanings keep chimneys and stoves from backing up and UL-certified electronics have been repeatedly tested to ensure that they are safe for regular functioning. Having safe heating sources in your home will limit risks posed by sparks and malfunctions.