November 23, 2007

Department urges space heater safety

       Now that we entering the Winter months, the White River Township Fire Department wants to remind you to use extreme caution if you find yourself using portable space heaters.

         The Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates that space heaters, including both fixed and portable varieties are associated with about 21,800 residential fires every year in the United States.  Approximately 300 people die each year in fires started by these heaters.  According to the National Fire Protection Association, supplemental heating equipment, such as electrical and kerosene heaters, is the leading cause of home fires in the United States during the months of December, January, and February.  Each year several White River Township Residents fall victim to fires as a result of improper use of portable heaters, so please take a few minutes and read the follow Safety Tips.
 

Safety Tips

• Space heaters have one function, and that is to provide supplemental heat.  Don't use them to warm bedding, cook food, thaw pipes, or dry clothing.
• Choose a space heater that has been tested and certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory. These heaters meet specific safety standards.
• Make sure the space heater includes a tip-over switch that shuts it off automatically if it accidentally tips over.
• Read and follow the manufacturer's operating instructions.
• Combustibles such as curtains, chairs, firewood, carpet and even walls should be at least three (3) feet away from the heater. Keep heaters away from areas where objects could fall on the heater and start a fire.
• Assure your heater does not exceed the capacity of your home's electrical wiring. (older homes have smaller wiring and the new high wattage heaters are not recommended)
• Plug the heater directly into the outlet. DO NOT USE extension cords or power strips.
• Keep children and pets away from space heaters.
• Turn the space heater off if you leave the area.
• Never use a space heater overnight in the room where you are sleeping.
• Use heaters on the floor.  Never place heaters on furniture.
• Do not use heaters in wet or moist places, such as bathrooms.
• Do not use liquid fuel-powered space heaters indoors. (carbon monoxide poisoning may occur and the fuel is not safe for use inside an occupied building)

 
         Be sure that every level of your home has a working smoke detector, and be sure to check it on a monthly basis. Change the batteries in the detectors when you change your clock in the Spring and Fall. Make sure everyone in your family knows at least two routes to escape from bedrooms.

For more information or assistance contact the White River Township Fire Department Fire Marshal's Office at (317) 888-8337.

   

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