The Huntsville/Lake of Bays Fire Department is reminding the community to have their furnace inspected and serviced as the winter season approaches.
According to officials, the furnace should be serviced at least once a year by a qualified professional.
Recently, fire crews said they responded to two separate structure fires, with one located in the Township of Lake of Bays and the other in Huntsville.
In both cases, smoke alarms alerted the occupants, who then investigated and discovered smoke and the smell of burning in their homes.
Officials said in both cases, the immediate evacuation and 911 call from the households resulted in no injuries being reported.
Upon arrival, firefighters said they discovered a light haze of smoke in both homes, but no fire was found immediately.
Fire crews said after using thermal imaging cameras to check for hot spots and ensuring no carbon monoxide was present, firefighters safely allowed the occupants back into the homes.
According to officials, furnace technicians later confirmed that the cause of the smoke in one case was due to a melted wire inside the furnace.
To prevent fires, officials advised keeping the furnace area clean and uncluttered, ensuring that anything that can burn is at least 3 feet away.
Officials also advised checking the dryer, furnace, stove, and fireplace vents to ensure they have not been blocked by nesting rodents or birds.
