FARMINGDALE -- More Mainers are turning to the old standby -- firewood -- as prices for oil and other winter heating fuels soar.

But Gov. John Baldacci says homeowners, especially those burning firewood for the first time, should keep safety in mind.

Baldacci and other administration officials held a news conference in Farmingdale on Thursday to demonstrate proper methods for stacking, drying and burning firewood safely. They also showed how to properly measure a cord of wood, which is 4 by 4 feet by 8 feet.

Baldacci recommends drying firewood as efficiently as possible if it is not dry or seasoned when purchased or cut. He also recommends cleaning your chimney and getting the local fire department's advice about safe installation of woodstoves.

More information is available from the Maine Forest Service, the Fire Marshal's Office and local fire departments.