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Whether or not your attic ladder needs to be fire-rated depends on your local building codes, so it’s best to check with your municipal office. However, if your ceiling meets a fire requirement, your attic ladder should as well. There are benefits of opting for a fire-rated ladder. For one, thanks to their fire-resistant material, they'll help protect your home from fire spreading from your attic, if one should break out.

Generally, an oil furnace is considered safer than a gas furnace for several reasons. While both types of furnaces can produce carbon monoxide, a leak in an oil furnace is easier to detect due to the smell. Oil furnaces also don't connect to a gas pipeline, which reduces the chance of a fuel leak. Most importantly, heating oil is not combustible, whereas natural gas is highly flammable. This means there is a much lower risk of combustion or explosion with an oil furnace. However, an oil furnace can still pose a fire hazard if it tips over.

A fireplace hearth is necessary in most areas per building codes, especially for gas and wood-burning fireplaces. Electric fireplaces may not require a hearth, so check local building codes or ask a pro for guidance if you’re leaning toward electric. A fireplace hearth can decrease the risk of flying embers creating a fire and burning your home down. That’s why fireproof material, like tile, is used for the hearth.

Your pilot light needs to be on whenever you’re using your furnace to heat your home. However, you might decide to turn it off during the summer months, when you don’t need heating. Doing this can save you a little bit of money on utility costs—just make sure you’re fine with relighting your pilot light (or hiring a professional to do it) when fall comes around and you’re ready to get cozy.