The state's Department of Agriculture is warning all of us to be sure to buy firewood from a reputable dealer.

The department says buyers should get the seller's name and business address, and firewood sellers in Colorado must provide a receipt with that information as well as the price, amount, and type of wood.

Firewood is usually sold by the cord. That's a pile of wood that equals 128 cubic feet. One cord equals a stack of wood that is 4 feet wide by 4 feet high by 8 feet long.

Bundled firewood, like you can buy at supermarkets, is commonly sold by the cubic foot. The actual amount of wood must meet the quantity declaration. Bundles must be marked with net volume, wood type, and contact information about the seller.

The department cautions against buying firewood advertised as by the truckload, face cord, rick, fireplace cord or pile, since they don't meet a standard for comparison.

You can call the Measurement Standards office at (303) 477-4220 with questions or for help in disputes regarding the sale of firewood.