LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) — Lansing Fire Marshal Jared Nisch is sharing home heating safety tips as cooler fall weather begins to set in across Mid-Michigan.

Nisch says that one of the major reasons home fires start is due to poor furnace maintenance.

"People do need to do a yearly check-up with their fairness. Call a reputable company, have them come out and maintain it, and check it," Nisch said. He adds that residents need to be diligent about replacing furnace filters as well.

Nisch says that heating-related fires are the second most common cause of home fires in the country, only behind cooking fires.

Proper clearance around a furnace is also essential to prevent a potential fire.

"The basements just tend to be a collection point for a lot of different stuff in people's homes, and we

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