State Fire Marshal: 1 Out Of Every 16 Space Heater Fires Causes a Fatality

By ADAM SWIFT (Patch Staff)

FRAMINGHAM, MA - Fire departments across the state are reminding residents that the expected frigid temperatures this weekend can cause safety issues both outside and inside.

Local fire departments and the state fire marshal’s office want to make sure residents are especially aware of the potential dangers of space heaters.

One hundred and twenty five space heater fires were reported to the Office of the State Fire Marshal between 2005 and 2014. While these fires are not frequent, they are deadly, state officials stressed.

One of every 16 space heater fires causes a fatality. These fires caused 23 civilian injuries, 27 fire service injuries, and an estimated dollar loss of $7 million. The average dollar loss for a space heater fire is $55,982. Twenty-five percent of these fires were caused when combustible materials such as bedding, magazines, newspapers, clothing or furniture were too close to the heater, and another 3% were caused when rugs, carpets or mats were under or too close to the heater.

The fire marshal’s office offers these safety tips for the proper use of space heaters:

• When buying a heater, look for one that has been tested and labeled by a nationally recognized testing company, such as Underwriter’s Laboratories Inc. (UL).

• Keep the heater 3 feet away from drapes, furniture or other flammable materials.

• Place the heater on a level surface away from areas where someone might bump into it and knock it over.

• Avoid using extension cords. If you must use an extension cord, make sure it is a heavy duty cord marked with a power rating at least as high as that on the label of the heater itself.

• Space heaters are for temporary use only. Never leave a space heater unattended or running while you sleep.

• Supervise children and pets when a space heater is in use.

• Keep electric heaters away from water. Never use them near a sink or in the bathroom.

• The sale and use of unvented kerosene heaters is illegal in Massachusetts.