With the weather cooling down, local firefighters are reminding residents and businesses to take caution to heating appliances.

In this case, portable heaters.

Last week, the Ripon Consolidated Fire District along with the Manteca Fire Department responded to an incident involving a patio heater being placed too close to a wall.

“The heat caused the wall to begin smoldering, but thankfully the situation was quickly brought under control before it spread,” said RCFD on Saturday.

Firefighters provided these safety tips:

• Keep at least 3 feet of clearance between heaters and anything that can burn – walls, furniture, decorations, or plants.
• Never leave heaters unattended while in use.
• Make sure heaters are on a stable surface and can’t be knocked over.

·       Always follow the manufacturer’s instruction for safe use.