Wrenford Fire Service is reminding residents to stay alert and take extra care when using portable space heaters this winter. As the cold weather moves into Southwestern Ontario, the demand for personal heating increases, and so does the risk of house fires. The City wants to make sure you know how to use these devices safely.
Portable heaters are a popular way to stay warm, but they need to be handled with care. Always turn them off when you go to bed or leave the room. Make sure you buy a heater that has been tested and approved by a qualified laboratory, and look for models that shut off automatically if they tip over. Place the unit on a solid, flat surface and keep it at least one metre away from anything that can burn, such as curtains, bedding or furniture. Do not block high traffic areas or doorways.
Plug space heaters directly into a wall outlet. Never use an extension cord or a power strip. If you plug other heavy appliances into the same circuit, the wires can overheat and start a fire.
Cooking and smoking are also leading causes of home fires in the winter months. Stay in the kitchen when you are using the stove, and never leave it unattended. If you smoke, use deep, sturdy ashtrays placed away from flammable items, and never throw cigarette butts into a trash can.
"Winter is a busy time for our fire crews, and a large portion of our calls involve space heaters or heating equipment," says Simon Hartley, Deputy Fire Chief. "A few simple steps can keep your home safe and your family warm all season long."
For more information on keeping your home safe this winter, visit our emergency preparedness page. You can also learn how to check your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms or contact Fire Station 1 (Headquarters) for a free home safety check.