Lexington Fire Dept: Space Heater Safety Tips

As temperatures drop, people turn to other sources of heat to keep the cold out and that can sometimes be dangerous.

Already this week investigators said one fire death in Lincoln County and a house fire in Lexington have been blamed on alternative heat sources.

Heating equipment is the leading cause of home fire deaths according to the National Fire Protection Association.

“We say to use common sense but in the crazy hectic lives that we lead things can get overlooked and things can be missed,” said Lexington firefighter Jessica Bowman.
 
Heater Safety Tips:
·  Have furnaces inspected and serviced by a qualified professional.
·  Do not use an extension cord when using a space heater; instead plug it directly into a wall outlet.
·  Keep anything that can burn at least three feet away from a space heater.
·  Remember to turn space heaters off when leaving the room.
·  Always use the right kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel burning space heaters.
·  Never use an over to heat a home.
·  Check batteries in all smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.
 
“There are obviously no guarantees but should the worst happen, you’ve taken the precautions,” said Bowman.