Winter in Florida may be short, but during those cold bursts, it's important to keep an eye on your furnace and be careful with space heaters.

We looked up some safety tips that you'll want to keep in mind this week as our first cold snaps of the season move in.

SPACE HEATERS

- When using a space heater, keep it away from drapes, furniture and other flammable materials and don't leave it on all night.

- If you use an extension cord, be sure it's heavy duty and in good condition. And, make sure the cord is rated to handle the power your space heater requires. Don't use household-type extension cords with your space heaters.

- Avoid using your space heater in the bathroom and never touch the heater when you're around water.

- Make sure your space heater has an automatic switch that turns off the electric current if the unit is tipped over.

- Have a three-foot "kid-free zone" around open fires and space heaters.

FURNACES and FIREPLACES

- Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional.

- Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room. Ashes should be cool before putting them in a metal container. Keep the container a safe distance away from your home.

- Remember that leaky furnaces can emit carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly. (Another reason to have it checked!)

- If this is the first time you've turned on your heater in awhile, you may detect a brief smell. Don't worry -- unless it lasts longer than a few minutes, in which case have someone check it out.

ELECTRIC BLANKETS

- When using electric blankets, look for cracks or breaks in the wiring. To prevent excessive heat buildup, make sure nothing covers your electric blanket. Never "tuck in" the sides or ends of your electric blanket.

AND FINALLY...

- Make sure your smoke detectors work and that they have fresh batteries in them.