South Cook News

As temperatures begin to fall, Park Forest fire officials are advising residents to take safety measures before using their furnaces for the first time this season.

Park Forest Fire Chief Mark Cotrano recommended that homeowners have their heating systems inspected and cleaned by a qualified professional. “After sitting idle all summer, your furnace could have dust buildup or mechanical issues that aren’t immediately noticeable,” Cotrano said. “A professional inspection can help prevent problems like carbon monoxide leaks or even fires once you turn on the heat.”

Cotrano also advised residents to check and replace furnace filters to maintain air quality and system performance. “A dirty filter can cause your furnace to work harder than it needs to, wasting energy and potentially leading to overheating,” he said.

For those who use space heaters, Cotrano stressed the importance of keeping them at least three feet away from flammable items such as curtains and bedding. He cautioned residents not to leave space heaters unattended or plugged in while sleeping. “Space heaters are one of the leading causes of home heating fires,” Cotrano said. “If you use one, make sure it has an automatic shut-off feature and is placed on a flat, stable surface.”

This week, the Park Forest Fire Department is carrying out a community outreach campaign to install smoke detectors in local homes. Firefighters are visiting residences to ensure alarms are working and to provide information on regular testing. “Working smoke detectors save lives,” Cotrano said. “They give you those crucial extra seconds to escape if there’s a fire. We want to make sure every home in Park Forest is protected before the winter heating season really sets in.”

Residents interested in obtaining a free smoke detector or scheduling an installation can contact the Park Forest Fire Department at (708) 748-5605.