Heading into the Cold: Essential Heating & Space Heater Safety Tips from NHFD
As the crisp autumn air settles over Logan County and temperatures begin to dip, many of us are reaching for thermostats, firing up furnaces, or plugging in portable space heaters to keep our homes warm and cozy.
While staying comfortable is a top priority as the weather changes, heating equipment is one of the leading causes of home fires during the fall and winter months. The New Holland Fire Department wants to ensure every family in our community stays safe, warm, and informed this season.
Before you flip that switch or light that pilot light, keep these crucial safety tips in mind:
1. Remember the "3-Foot Rule"
Whether it’s a portable space heater, a wood stove, or a fireplace, maintain a 3-foot safety perimeter.
- Keep anything that can burn—including curtains, blankets, rugs, furniture, and paper—at least three feet away from all heat sources.
- Establish a 3-foot "kid and pet-free zone" around portable heaters and fireplaces to prevent accidental burns or knock-overs.
2. Plug Space Heaters Directly into the Wall
Space heaters draw a tremendous amount of electrical power.
- Never use an extension cord or power strip with a portable space heater. Extension cords can easily overheat and create an immediate electrical fire hazard.
- Always plug heaters directly into a wall outlet, and check the cord regularly for any fraying, cracking, or damage.
3. Look for Automatic Safety Features
If you’re purchasing a new portable heater or upgrading an old one, choose a model that is tested and certified by an independent laboratory (like UL or ETL). Ensure it includes:
- Tip-Over Protection: Automatically turns the heater off if knocked over by a pet or child.
- Overheat Protection: Shuts the device down if internal components get too hot.
4. Smart Heating Habits Around the House
- Turn them off when you leave: Never leave a space heater running unattended or while sleeping. Always unplug them when stepping out of the room or going to bed.
- Keep on solid ground: Always place heaters on a flat, stable, non-flammable surface. Avoid putting them on rugs, carpets, or elevated furniture.
- Never use kitchen ovens for heat: Your stove or oven is designed for cooking, not heating. Using an oven as a heat source poses severe fire risks and deadly carbon monoxide hazards.
5. Test Your Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarms
As doors and windows stay shut for the season, proper detection becomes your home’s first line of defense.
- Test all smoke alarms and Carbon Monoxide (CO) detectors monthly.
- Replace batteries if you haven't done so recently, and ensure detectors are installed on every level of your home.
We’re Here to Keep New Holland Safe
A little preparation goes a long way in preventing home fires this fall and winter. Please share these tips with friends, family, and neighbors!
If you ever suspect a heating issue, smell gas, or see smoke, get outside immediately and call 911.
Stay warm and stay safe,
Your Volunteer Firefighters at the New Holland Fire Department
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