Chesterton Tribune

 

 

State Fire Marshal: Space heaters can be dangerous, use only with great care

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With the arrival of the first truly bitter temperatures of the season, Indiana State Fire Marshal Jim Greeson is urging Hoosiers to think twice about using space heaters and other forms of alternative heating.

“Strongly consider other options before using alternative heating,” Greeson said in a statement released on Wednesday. “Add insulation or other heat-capturing barriers to window and doors. Wearing warmer clothes and adding blankets will also help with comfort. If you must use space heaters or other forms of alternative heating, take precautions.”

Some safety tips:

*Space heaters should always be kept away from loose or flammable objects such as clothing, curtains, bedding, and furniture. There should be at least a three-foot perimeter around space heaters at all times. Avoid using candles or appliances, such as a stove or oven, to heat the home.

*Fireplaces should be regularly cleaned and inspected by a certified professional, such as a chimney sweep. Gas fireplaces should have properly working ventilation with a functioning carbon monoxide detector nearby. “Creosote deposits build up quickly in chimneys and can easily catch fire,” Greeson said. “Keep anything flammable away from fireplaces, and use only paper or kindling to start a fire. Always have a fire extinguisher on hand in case the fire grows too large or out of control.”

*Fires should always be extinguished and space heaters unplugged before going to bed or leaving the home for any period of time. Do not leave space heaters running in unoccupied rooms. In addition to safe heating, do not overload electrical outlets.

Fire Deaths and Smoke Alarms

Greeson is also urging Hoosiers to check their smoke detectors. “Last year we had more than 75 fire-related deaths, and in a lot of these cases there was not a working smoke alarm in the home,” he said. “Smoke alarms are proven to save lives.”

“Test your smoke detector to make sure it works,” Greeson noted. “Even if it responds correctly, if you don’t remember the last time you changed your batteries, do it today. If you don’t have a smoke detector, buy one and install it. If you don’t have the funds, contact your local fire department or social service agency to see if one can be provided.”

Investigators from the Indiana Department of Homeland Security responded to more than 300 fires in 2014 and in more than half of those investigations, the location had no smoke alarms at all or had non-working smoke alarms, the statement said.

Working smoke alarms are important to have year round, but especially in the winter months when alternative heating sources are used. “Space heaters account for one-third of home heating fires, according to the National Fire Protection Association,” the statement said.

For more information on safe alternative heating safety, visit GetPrepared.in.gov

 

 

Posted 1/8/2015

 
 
 
 

 

 

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