Ripple Effects

As the temperatures continue to dip, many individuals and families may find themselves turning to space heaters as either a primary source of heat, or as a supplemental source. For these folks, space heaters are a necessary tool for getting through the winter.  Many who are on fixed incomes, have recently lost their jobs, or are just simply struggling to make ends meet in this economy cannot afford the high price of natural gas to heat their home.  Some use the space heaters to help heat smaller areas, or serve as a “boosters” for their heating system…trying to keep their thermostat lowered to save money, but need a smaller area a little warmer.  Whatever the situation…the space heater does indeed have the ability to make an unbearable situation a bit more bearable.

A couple of weeks ago I wrote about a woman who had been using a space heater that had been repaired at some point in time.  Definitely a bad idea.  But even space heaters that have not been repaired and/or altered can pose a major fire hazard if not used wisely.  Just this morning, I was called to a mobile home fire that is believed to have been caused by a space heater that had tipped over.  Fortunately, everyone was able to get out safely, but the family has lost everything.  And that was actually the second fire within just hours … both listing space heaters as the suspected cause.

If you must rely on this type of appliance, please be sure to use it safely.  Some simple safety suggestions:

• Keep all potential sources of fuel like paper, clothing, bedding or rugs at least three feet away from space heaters, stoves, or fireplaces. 
• Portable heaters and fireplaces should never be left unattended. Turn off space heaters and make sure any embers in the fireplace are extinguished before going to bed or leaving home.
• If you must use a space heater, place it on a level, hard and nonflammable surface (such as ceramic tile floor), not on rugs or carpets or near bedding or drapes. Keep children and pets away from space heaters.
• When buying a space heater, look for models that shut off automatically if the heater falls over as another safety measure.

You can find more fire prevention tips by visiting the American Red Cross website’s page on Preventing Homefires.   Additional information on Home Heating Safety Precautions is also available from the National Fire Protection Association…definitely worth the read!

It’s a fact that we have to be very creative in today’s economy to keep things together — and to make ends meet.  But while we’re keeping things together, and trying to stretch those ends together somehow, don’t forget “keeping the family safe” in the equation.  Check out the info, ponder it a bit, and then do something really great…Pass it On!

Stay Warm All — but Stay Safe!