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Threats & Emergencies  

Winter Weather

Winter Home • Winter Basics • Preparing for Winter Weather • Responding to Winter Weather

Preparing for Winter Weather

Heating Safety

Do you know how to stay warm while staying safe this winter? The State Fire Marshall, the Virginia Department of Fire Programs and the Virginia Fire Prevention Association have important information about how to use furnaces, fireplaces and space heaters safely.

Safety Tips

The Virginia Department of Fire Programs has extensive fire safety information, including fireplace safety and alternative heater safety tips, on their Web site. [external link - opens in a new browser window]

Crisis Heating Assistance

The Energy Assistance Program is available help households in heating emergency situations with primary heat security deposits, utility heating bills, repair/replacement of heating equipment, primary heating fuel or emergency shelter. Those wishing to request assistance can see if they qualify for the program by visiting http://www.dss.virginia.gov/benefit/ea/index.html or calling the DSS Information and Referral Line at 800-230-6977.