DISTRICT HEIGHTS, Md. — The WUSA9 First Alert weather team has warned that this weekend will have winterlike temperatures. The temperature drop also means many people will be using space heaters to stay warm.
Prince George’s County Fire shared a warning and tips about how to safely use them Thursday, because they often respond to so many calls with fires that started from people using them the wrong way.
As the temperature drops and the wind picks up, District Heights Fire Station 826 has gotten more emergency calls.
“We’re coming into cold weather; people look for that alternative heat source or a way to stay warmer,” Prince George’s County Battalion Chief Eric Reith said.
Prince George’s County Battalion Chief Eric Reith said this time of year is when they often respond to more calls. So, they’re offering tips when it comes to using space heaters and generators to stay warm.
“We prefer if people are going to use it, they use electric over kerosene or propane sometimes people try to use it and they’re not design for the enclosed spaces of a residence,” Reith said.
Keep your device 3-feet away from anything combustible. Plug it directly into an outlet, not a power strip or an extension cord. Never use a space heater to dry clothing, this can lead to a fire. Keep space heaters at least 3-feet from furniture.
“Think about that as your hair dryer, if you’re using your hair dryer, you’re plugging it in by itself because it’s probably going to trip the breaker,” Reith said. “If you’re trying to use multiple things in the same outlet that space heater has the same kind of power.”
Using these kinds of heating and power sources can create fire risk. So Chief Reith said people should have a clear exit plan, just in case and always turn off space heaters before you go to bed.
Lastly, make sure you are using your generators the correct way.
“You’re going to keep it outside your house, that you’ll keep it a safe distance from your window and doors, so you don’t get carbon monoxide in your house,” Reith said.
Also, know in the wintertime your furnace is going to run and that’s another combustible heating source so be careful. Make sure you have smoke and carbon monoxide alarm as well. If you need one you can call the Prince George's County Fire Department and a local fire station can come and install them, also other municipalities have similar programs.