Image, Shutterstock
With the first cool/cold weather of the fall season fast approaching, many will turn to the use of their home heating source for the first time since winter. During this time of year, the use of alternative heating methods are expected to increase in the coming days specifically portable space heaters, electric wall heaters, and furnaces. These are all acceptable heating methods however; they contribute to residential fires in our area. The Jackson Fire Department would like to offer a few safety tips.
Space heaters
- Keep space heaters at least 3 feet away from anything that can burn-including furniture, blankets, curtains, and paper products
- Choose space heaters that turn off automatically if they tip over
- Never use a space heater to dry clothing
- Turn off space heaters before you go to bed
- In a kerosene heater, use only the proper fuel
- Refuel a heater outside, after it has cooled
Electric Wall Heaters
- Temperature control units may automatically turn themselves on when the temperature drops below the thermostat setting
- Because they do not operate in summer, months these units are often forgot about and may have furniture and other combustible items located within close proximity
- Electric wall heaters should be checked to ensure no combustible materials are located within at least a 3 feet radius
- The units should be inspected prior to the onset of cold weather
Maintain Your Furnace
- Have your furnace inspected every year by a licensed professional
- Keep anything away that can burn away from the furnace
- Keep the vents clear; carbon monoxide is vented out of homes through the flue likely through the roof
Having up to date working smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors wherever gas appliances are used, and a home escape plan substantially increases the chances of survival in a fire emergency. If you would like more information about this topic contact the Jackson Fire Department Fire Prevention Bureau, or please call 425-8789 or email at lbillingsley@jacksontn.gov.