Staying warm in your home this winter season

MARQUETTE COUNTY, Mich. (WLUC) - Even though winter isn't quite here yet, the time to start heating your homes has begun.

"It's been cold early, said Ferrellgas General Manager, Don Steckman.

Luckily, there are several ways you can keep your home nice and cozy during this season.

"Propane is safe and it's very convenient. You can get very high efficiency furnaces, said Steckman.

As far as propane tank safety goes, Steckman strongly emphasizes the importance of regular maintenance.

"I would suggest that everyone would check their tanks now. Make sure if you're not on a keep full service with your company, that you call them when you're at 30% so you're giving them plenty of time to go out and make a delivery, he explained.

Steckman also advises people to change their furnace filters monthly and to get a check-up from a qualified heating technician.

But, if you choose to use natural gas to heat your home, SEMCO Energy has a few recommendations as well.

"You want to make sure on your vented appliances for example if you have a gas dryer that might vent out the side of your home or a furnace... some new high efficiency furnaces vent out the side of your home or a gas fireplace sometimes vents out the side of your home, you need to make sure those vents are not blocked, explained SEMCO Spokesperson, Tim Lubbers.

This way there will not be a buildup of carbon monoxide in your home. SEMCO officials also urge you not to allow snow or ice to build up on or near your meter and regulator....