Fire Rescue is reminding residents in older neighbourhoods to use space heaters safely as temperatures drop. Since October 1, the service has responded to four structure fires across the city, three of them in buildings constructed before 1980. Older wiring and portable heating sources create a dangerous mix that can quickly get out of control.
Fire Rescue officers are urging homeowners and renters in the Old Mill, Riverside Flats and Fallsview areas to follow simple precautions. If you use a portable space heater, make sure it has been listed by a qualified testing laboratory, such as CSA or ULC. Always plug these units directly into a wall outlet. Never plug a space heater into an extension cord, power strip or multi-outlet adapter, and do not share a circuit with other high-draw appliances.
Keep the heater on a solid, flat surface and maintain at least one metre of clear space around it. Keep bedding, paper, furniture and curtains away from the unit. Turn the heater off when you leave the room or go to bed. If a heater has an automatic tip-over shut-off feature, use it, but never rely on it as your only safety measure.
"Older homes in Wrenford often have wiring that was not designed for the extra electrical load," said Chief Darren MacAulay, Wrenford Fire Chief. "A space heater is a convenient way to stay warm, but it requires respect. A quick habit change when you plug it in could keep your home and family safe this winter."
Fire Rescue also reminds residents to test their smoke and carbon monoxide alarms monthly and replace batteries annually. For more details on home fire safety and heating equipment standards, visit the Fire Rescue section of our website.