FDNY warns of fire hazards from home heating during cold weather

NEW YORK (WABC) -- As the mercury drops down, firefighters are getting ready to battle twin dangers: fire and ice.

The FDNY is warning that heating is the second leading cause of home fires in the winter.

As the arctic weather arrives, firefighters will also be dealing with frozen hydrants.

The FDNY's fire safety unit addressed some of the concerns and made a plea for New Yorkers to get ready.

"I ask people to look around the home, look at where you can be safe, watch your candles, don't leave them unattended," said FDNY Commissioner Daniel Nigro. "Make sure that holiday trees have water in them, things like that at this year."

The FDNY also said space heaters should be plugged directly into the wall, power strips should not be used.