As freezing temperatures grip York County, Pennsylvania, firefighters are urging residents to use heating devices safely to prevent house fires. Over the past few days, firefighters responded to multiple fires likely caused by improper heating practices.
York Deputy Fire Chief Adam Smith emphasized the importance of proper clearance around space heaters. "One of the important things about space heaters is they need to have the proper clearance around any surrounding objects," Smith advised. He also recommended plugging space heaters directly into wall outlets, not into power strips or surge protectors, to avoid overloading circuits.
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that heating equipment is a leading cause of home fire deaths, accounting for 12% of home fires annually. Nearly half of these fires occur from December to February. The NFPA advises keeping combustible materials at least three feet away from heat sources like space heaters, fireplaces, and wood stoves.
Residents should ensure their smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning properly, with fresh batteries. Kevin White, a fire chief in Tucker County, recommends having furnaces, chimneys, and flues inspected annually.
As the cold weather continues, following these safety tips can help prevent fires and keep homes safe.
