UPDATE: January 22 at 8:49 p.m.

Firefighters say wood burning stoves are one of the most common causes of house fires in the wintertime.

The other common causes include space heaters and fireplaces.

KHQA's Melissa Shriver talked to a local firefighter to get some practical ways to stay safe when using these handy heat sources in your home.

What's the most important thing to remember?

Make sure you have items three feet away from the heat source.

Asst chief Darren Smith with the Tri-Township Fire Department says if you use a wood stove to heat your home, you should have it inspected at least once a year.  Also make sure you clean out the ashes daily, if used regularly.

Another tip:

If you're using a space heater...make sure its UL rated with Tip protection so it automatically turns off if it gets knocked over.  And don't ever leave it unattended.

Tri-Township Assistant Chief Darren Smith reminds you to never heat your home with a stove or oven.

Some of those appliances let off carbon monoxide, which is poisonous.

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UPDATE: January 21 at 4:15 p.m.

A wood burning stove may be to blame for a predawn fire in Quincy Friday.

The call came in to 7100 State St. at 6:42 a.m.

81-year-old Elizabeth Mahsman woke up to flames coming out of her duct work.

She fled the house in her barefeet and flagged down a passerby to call for help.

The house is a total loss.

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UPDATE: January 21 at 9:26 a.m.

Freezing conditions challenged firefighters as they fought the house fire at 6901 State.

Crews were called to spread salt near the home as water used to put out the fire froze almost immediately.

The Adams County Red Cross was called to provide support at at the scene.

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KHQA's Melissa Shriver is on the scene of a house fire in the Tri-Township area near 6901 State.

An elderly woman was inside the home but escaped and is being treated.

We are being told that the fire is large in size and is not yet under control.

There is a propane tank on the property and it is a primary concern for firefighters.

We will bring you more details as we receive them.