Fire officials urge residents to use safety precautions when using space heaters
Fire officials are warning residents to use safety precautions when using space heaters in their homes.
Pike Road Fire Chief Matt Missildine tells Action 8 News that space heaters are the leading cause of death when it comes to heating equipment fires.
Chief Missildine says the carbon monoxide poisoning is the main concern, so if you’re using a propane heater, make sure you have a carbon monoxide detector. He also says to use the heater as it is instructed, which includes using a proper ventilator.
Officials say to also only use a space heater if its at least 3 feet away from combustible materials, such as furniture, bedding and curtains.
If you don’t have a proper way of staying warm, the Montgomery County EMA office opens its warming center on LeBron Road every evening when the temperatures fall below 35 degrees.
