01/24/2026
WINTER HEATING FIRE SAFETY | According to the National Fire Protection Association, half of home heating fires were caused by having heating equipment too close to things that can burn; such as upholstered furniture, clothing mattresses, or bedding.
Nearly half (48%) of all home heating fires occurred in December, January, and February.
It’s important to be aware of these dangers and take precautions as temperatures drop this weekend. Here are some tips from Henderson Fire Department on how to stay safe while using space heaters:
▪ Keep combustibles at least three feet away from heating equipment. Check all flues and chimneys to make sure they’re clear of obstructions, especially if you use solid-fueled heaters.
▪ If using extension cords with your heating equipment, there should be no more than one cord to a single outlet, and the wire should be heavy enough for the appliance you’re plugging in. An overload can cause overheating and result in a fire.
▪ When purchasing a space heater, make sure it has an automatic shut-off switch in case it gets knocked over.
▪ Never use a gas oven to provide warmth in your home. Doing this could result in carbon monoxide poisoning or even an explosion.
▪ Don’t forget to check your smoke detectors! Make sure your detectors are properly installed, working, and kept free of dust.
▪ Make sure you have working carbon monoxide detectors in your home as well. This is especially important if you rely on fuel-fired appliances such as gas stoves, space heaters, or generators.
The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning may be mistaken for other illnesses such as the cold or flu, so it’s important to keep an eye out for these symptoms:
-Dull headache
-Weakness
-Dizziness
-Nausea or vomiting
-Shortness of breath
-Confusion
-Blurred vision
-Loss of consciousness
▪ Finally, never leave children unattended near an open flame. This includes fireplaces or wood stoves and candles.
As cold weather approaches, we urge you to follow these simple winter heating fire safety tips.
