Jackson County EMA Reminds Locals about Space Heater Safety

Credit: MGN

JACKSON COUNTY — With cold weather upon our region, the Jackson County Emergency Management is offering tips about space heater safety.

They say if you are using a space heater to keep the following in mind:

1. Give it space.
Keep all space heaters at least 3 feet away from anything that can burn—furniture, curtains, bedding, and clothing.

2. Plug directly into the wall.
Never use extension cords or power strips. Space heaters pull high wattage and can overload them quickly.

3. Never leave it unattended.
Turn it off before leaving the room or going to sleep. Most space heater fires happen when people aren’t watching them.

4. Fuel-burning heaters require ventilation.
If you use a kerosene or fuel-burning heater, ensure proper airflow and always have a working carbon monoxide detector.