We’d really like to sell you a new house, but not at expense of your old one. As temperatures drop, now is the time that people are using fireplaces for the first time all year. Dirty or blocked fireplaces can be a real hazard. We’re reminded of one home owner who set off a carbon monoxide detector on a converted gas fireplace after forgetting to open his flew. Now is the time to review fireplace safety with your family members. If you have any doubts, ask an expert. It’s also a great time to check batteries in fire alarms and install or replace your carbon monoxide detector. Remember to also change your furnace filter.