A lot of people turn to alternative sources in our area to heat their homes in the extreme cold weather.

Several merchants told us they've been selling a lot of portable and kerosene heaters because they're relatively inexpensive and do a good job.

But, Florence firefighters say you need to be careful because the heaters can spark fires.

"You want to use them in areas where there's no combustible materials. You want to have at least 36 inches around completely around the heater that's free of any type of materials that can catch fire, magazines, newspapers, drapes," said Cpt. Ken Carr, Florence Fire Department.

Firefighters say make sure you use only kerosene fuel in a kerosene heater because if you use gasoline, it will explode.

They also advise you to read the manuals that come with the heaters.

Fire officials say make sure you refuel a kerosene heater only after it cools down and do it outside.