The days are getting shorter, the nights are getting cooler and people are beginning to turn on their furnaces for the first time in months. Heating appliances should be serviced annually and checked for proper operation. A qualified heating contractor, plumber or SoCalGas can provide this service.

Failure to perform annual maintenance on gas appliances may result in exposure to carbon monoxide, which can cause nausea, drowsiness, flu-like symptoms and even death. Since space heating typically accounts for more than half of a monthly winter gas bill, the best way to keep bills lower is to get gas appliances serviced.

SoCalGas and the city of Santa Clarita offer the following tips to promote the safe and efficient operation of your natural gas furnace:

* Have gas furnaces checked at least once a year by a qualified heating contractor, plumber or The Gas Company.

* Vacuum and clean regularly in and around the furnace, particularly around the burner compartment to prevent a build-up of dust and lint.

* Never store items in, on or around the appliance that can obstruct airflow.

* Most forced-air units have a filter that cleans the air before heating and circulating it throughout the home. The filter should be checked monthly for lint build-up during periods of furnace use and cleaned or replaced, if necessary.

* When installing a new or cleaned filter, be sure to re-install the front panel door of the furnace properly so it fits snugly. Never operate the furnace without the front-panel door properly in place because doing so may create the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

* Check the appearance of the flame. If the flame is yellow, large and unsteady, the furnace needs to be inspected immediately by a licensed heating contractor, plumber or The Gas Company to have the condition corrected.

* Never use ovens, ranges or outdoor barbecues to heat a home because these appliances are not designed for such use and pose a severe and potentially fatal risk of carbon monoxide poisoning if used for space heating.

Remember, the time for your furnace maintenance check is before the first big cold snap. Avoid the rush by scheduling your appliance operational check today. For more information on furnace safety or to schedule a FREE service appointment, please visit the SoCalGas website at socalgas.com.