A Fire Starter: Plugging Into a Powerstrip
The Oregon Fire Department is not the only one offering space heater safety advice. The Toledo Fire Department in Ohio published a similar statement after a residence caught fire owing to the improper use of a space heater. The heater ignited the couch, and the entire house immediately went up in flames. (2) Space heaters can reach temperatures of up to 600 degrees Fahrenheit, thus it is critical that everyone utilizes them carefully. (2)
Their tips include:
- Never plug into a power strip, instead always directly into a wall unit
- Keep a minimum of three feet of space around the space heater at all times
- Always keep an eye on your space heater while it is in use, never turn it on while sleeping or in a different room
- Place heaters on level, flat surfaces
- Never put heaters on cabinets, tables, furniture, or carpet
