Trying to stay warm? How to use space heaters and fireplaces safely
COBB COUNTY, Ga. - Firefighters are warning people about using alternative heat sources like space heaters to try to stay warm inside while the weather is cold outside.
They say if not used properly, it can be dangerous.
What they're saying:
Nick Danz of Cobb County Fire and Emergency Services says every time the temperature drops, firefighters respond to house fires caused by dangerous ways people try to keep their homes warm. "This is our busiest time of year," said Danz.
"Like using their oven to heat the homes or dangerously using their space heaters, or trying to run generators for warmth inside," Danz added.
The backstory:
Danz says the biggest problem they see is the improper use of space heaters. He says look for space heaters that have safety features such as automatic shut-off switches if they overheat or fall over.
He says never use them with extension cords of surge protectors. "Plugging them into a wall outlet where there's a breaker system versus plugging them into a surge protector may not be rated for that much wattage, and they can overheat and cause fires," said Danz.
What you can do:
He advises giving those space heaters some space. At least three feet from anything flammable. "Toys, paper, wood, blankets, towels, bedding, we see that, from time to time, where there's a space heater close to the bed and that can become flammable," said Danz.
The same can be said for fireplaces. Putting a screen in front of the roaring flames could help prevent a home from being damaged or destroyed. "Having that protective screen protects any embers popping out and causing carpet or flooring or anything like that to catch fire," said Danz.
Danz also says don't leave candles unattended.
He says this is a good time to remind everyone to check all smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they're working.
"You should have a smoke alarm outside every living space and on every floor, and you should have a carbon monoxide detector on every floor as well," said Danz.
He also says check your chimney for cracks and soot builds up. "We've already seen this week, a couple of chimney fires, and we're reminding folks to get their chimneys inspected at least every year," said Danz.
Danz also warns of another very dangerous situation they see when the temperature stays below freezing for a long period of time. He warns everyone if they see ice over a small pond, do not even think about trying to test it to see if it will hold your weight. He says if you see someone fall through the ice into the water, throw them a rope or something similar to try to help them and call 911 immediately.
The Source: FOX 5's Denise Dillon spoke with Nick Danz of Cobb County Fire and Emergency Services about the dangers of space heaters and other fire causes during the winter months.