Security suggestions if your using a space heating unit to stay warm

Space heating systems may conserve a few dollars throughout the heating season, however they can be dangerous when utilized improperly. With the coldest air of the year moving in to Indiana this weekend, Indiana State Fire Marshal Jim Greeson urges Hoosiers to work out caution when utilizing alternative heating sources.

“I’ve seen a lot of circumstances of inappropriate use of a space heater resulting in a disaster,” Greeson said. “One preventable death is one a lot of. It depends on all Hoosiers to spread out awareness about the potential dangers of area heating systems.”

A complex winter season storm will move throughout Indiana this weekend with an anticipated wintery mix of snow, ice and rain. Severe cold temperature levels likewise will accompany this storm into the latter half of the weekend, increasing the possibilities that Hoosiers will rely on area heating systems to keep warm.

Nearly half, 48 percent, of all home heating fires happen in December, January and February, according to the National Fire Protection Association. Heating equipment fires represented 15 percent of all reported home fires from 2012 to 2016, the 2nd leading cause behind cooking. Greeson advises Hoosiers to follow all security labels and take extra safety measures when space heating systems are in use.

Tips found on GetPrepared.in.gov can help increase awareness on how to properly use area heating units. Some pointers include: Keep at least a 3-foot boundary around space heaters at all times. The additional distance minimizes the opportunities of something igniting.

Other methods to remain warm

Greeson encourages Hoosiers to think about other choices prior to using space heaters. Some pointers to stay warm include:

• Wear thick, warm clothes such as socks, slippers, sweaters and long underclothing.
• Caulking windows can stop drafts and reduce heat loss from the home.
• Remaining active while indoors can assist with increasing body heat. Some activities to think about are dancing, cleaning, exercising and just walking around.

For more security ideas on how to properly utilize space heating units, check out Security pointers if your utilizing a space heating system to stay warm appeared initially on 95.3 MNC.

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Safety tips if you’re using a space heater to stay warm