Heating is one of the leading causes of fires in the United States.

According to data from the National Fire Protection Association, half of all home heating fires occur in December, January and February.

Below are some tips to help protect you from home fires:

Keep all potential sources of fuel like paper, clothing, bedding or rugs at least three feet away from space heaters, stoves, or fireplaces.

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

Portable heaters and fireplaces should never be left unattended. Turn off space heaters and make sure any embers in the fireplace are extinguished before going to bed or leaving home.

If you must use a space heater, place it on a level, hard and nonflammable surface (such as ceramic tile floor), not on rugs or carpets or near bedding or drapes. Avoid using extension cords with a space heater.

Never use a cooking range or oven to heat your home.

RELATED: Need assistance keeping your home warm? Here are some tri-state resources.

Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy glass or metal 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.

Have a qualified professional install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters or central heating equipment according to the local codes and manufacturer’s instructions.

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

Always use the right kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel burning space heaters.

It is critical that households have working smoke alarms. Test smoke alarms at least once a month.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 20,000 people are taken to an emergency room, and over 400 people die every year from accidental carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. CLICK HERE for tips to keep yourself and your loved ones safe.