By BECKY KISER
Hays Post

Even though it’s 100 degrees outside now, it’s time to get ready for the winter heating season, according to the Hays Fire Department.

“It’s a little early, but now is a good time to get the jump on getting your furnace checked and serviced by a qualified technician,” said Firefighter Keith Mermis.

Mermis also urges residents to have their water heaters checked.

“It may prevent a carbon monoxide leak, a fire or a furnace or water heater malfunction.

“Also, chimneys and vents should be cleaned and inspected at least once a year by a qualified chimney cleaning contractor,” Mermis added.

HFD also recommends testing smoke and carbon monoxide alarms every month and changing the batteries every six months.

“We usually suggest changing the batteries when the time changes–Daylight Saving Time in the fall and in the spring,” Mermis said.

“Once again, the Hays Fire Department is offering free smoke and carbon monoxide alarms for low-income residents or those on fixed incomes. Just contact the fire department or me, and we’ll be glad to come out and put those in.  We’ll also come to the homes of people with limited mobility to install alarms and to change alarm batteries, and do a general checkup on your house if you need it,” said Mermis.

For more information, contact Mermis at the Hays Fire Department at (785) 628-7330 or email [email protected].