In the Bronx, NY, a recent tragedy resulted from a space heater starting an apartment building on fire. The fire killed 17 residents and could have been avoided. Here’s what you need to know about space heater safety in your home or apartment to prevent such a crushing loss.
Heating equipment is the second-leading cause of U.S. home fires and the third-leading cause of home fire deaths and injuries.
National Fire Protection Association
Many renters and homeowners use space heaters to supplement the heat in their dwellings. When misused, a space heater can become your worst nightmare. Avoid a tragedy by installing and maintaining smoke alarms along with the following:
- Install smoke alarms in each bedroom, outside each sleeping area (ex. hallway), on every level of the home, even in the basement. Make sure your family knows the sound of the smoke alarm so they can respond quickly in case of an emergency.
- Test smoke alarms every month. Replace batteries at least once per year, on an easy-to-remember holiday or date (ex. Memorial Day).
- Turn off portable heaters when you leave the room or go to bed.
- Keep 3 feet clear around the heater.
- Do not use an extension cord with a portable space heater. Plug the heater into the wall with its cord.
- Replace or clean the heater’s filter, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Have an exit plan in place in case of a fire in your home. Practice an escape plan each year. Point out the nearest exit in every room (window, doors) that lead outside.
- Have an emergency escape ladder for the upper floors of your home and store it near the window.
Half of home heater fires are reported in December, January, and February.
National Fire Protection Association
Let's prevent fires in our homes by properly using space heaters and installing smoke alarms. Test your smoke alarms regularly and replace the batteries each year. By practicing an escape plan with your family at least a couple of times a year, you'll increase the chances of escaping a burning house. Stay safe!
