Last Updated on January 17, 2019 by cassnetwork
Space
heaters may save a few dollars during the heating season, but they can
be dangerous when used improperly. With the coldest air of the year
moving in to Indiana this weekend, Indiana State Fire Marshal Jim
Greeson urges Hoosiers to exercise caution when using alternative
heating sources.
“I’ve seen too many instances of improper use of
a space heater leading to a tragedy,” Greeson said. “One preventable
death is one too many. It is up to all Hoosiers to spread awareness
about the potential dangers of space heaters.”
A complex winter
storm will move across Indiana this weekend with an expected wintery mix
of snow, ice and rain. Extreme cold temperatures also will accompany
this storm into the latter half of the weekend, increasing the chances
that Hoosiers will turn to space heaters to keep warm.
Nearly
half, 48 percent, of all home heating fires occur in December, January
and February, according to the National Fire Protection Association.
Heating equipment fires accounted for 15 percent of all reported home
fires from 2012 to 2016, the second leading cause behind cooking.
Greeson advises Hoosiers to follow all safety labels and take extra
precautions when space heaters are in use.
Tips found on GetPrepared.in.gov can help increase awareness on how to properly use space heaters. Some tips include:
- Keep at least a 3-foot perimeter around space heaters at all times. The extra distance lessens the chances of something catching fire.
- Keep space heaters away from loose or flammable objects such as clothing, curtains, bedding and furniture.
- Turn off space heaters when leaving the room and before going to sleep.
- Plug the space heater directly into an electrical outlet. Only one space heater should be plugged into an electrical outlet.
Other ways to stay warm
Greeson encourages Hoosiers to consider other options before using space heaters. Some tips to stay warm include:
- Wear thick, warm clothing such as socks, slippers, sweaters and long underwear.
- Caulking windows can stop drafts and decrease heat loss from the house.
- Staying active while indoors can help with increasing body heat. Some activities to consider are dancing, cleaning, working out and simply walking around.
For more safety tips on how to properly use space heaters, visit GetPrepared.in.gov.
SOURCE: News release from Indiana Department of Homeland Security