Eddy County Fire and Rescue (ECFR) is offering safety tips regarding space heaters.
With the U.S. Department of Energy reporting approximately 25,000 house fires annually that are linked to space heaters, residents need to be safe when utilizing such heaters.
Property damage from these fires can be devastating, and many result in trips to the emergency room, with more than 300 fatalities reported each year.
Tips from the U.S. Fire Administration include:
- Place space heaters on a solid, flat surface.
- Keep them at least three feet from things that are flammable.
- Check your space heater for cracked or damaged cords and plugs.
- Plug space heaters directly into wall outlets; don’t use extension cords or power strips.
—Artesia Daily Press