As temperatures drop, home heating becomes essential; however, it also becomes dangerous. After cooking, heating equipment is the second leading cause of home fires in the United States, with space heaters responsible for the majority of deaths and damage. Knowing a few simple precautions can protect your home, family, and community.

Why Heating Safety Matters

Not only is heating the second leading cause of home fires in the United States, but space heaters, in particular, account for the majority of heating-related fire deaths. Due to the dropping temperatures, winter months see a spike in heating-related emergencies. Many of these incidents are preventable through safe use and maintenance and by following the tips listed below.

General Safe Heating Practices

• Ensure that you keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet away from any heating equipment.
• Never block vents, radiators, or heat registers.
• Keep children and pets away from heat sources.
• Install smoke alarms on every level of the home and test them monthly!
• Install carbon monoxide (CO) alarms if using fuel-burning devices.
• Create and practice a home fire escape plan.

Space Heater Safety

• Choose heaters with automatic shut-off if tipped over.
• Plug space heaters directly into the wall and never use extension cords.
• Turn heaters off before sleeping or leaving the room.
• Place on a stable, flat surface.
• Keep cords out of walkways.
• Follow manufacturer instructions for spacing and wattage.

Fireplace and Wood Stove Safety

• Have chimneys and vents inspected and cleaned yearly.
• Use a metal or heat-tempered glass screen to stop sparks.
• Dispose of ashes in a metal container that you keep outside.
• Burn only dry, seasoned wood.
• Keep flammable items away from fireplace openings.

Furnace, Boiler and Central Heating Safety

• Schedule annual professional inspections!
• Replace filters regularly to prevent overheating.
• Ensure furnace rooms have adequate ventilation.
• Keep combustible materials away from the unit.

Carbon Monoxide Prevention

• CO is produced by all gas heaters, fireplaces, wood stoves, and generators.
• Install CO alarms outside sleeping areas.
• Never run ovens, grills, or generators for heating.
• If the alarm sounds → move outdoors immediately and call 911.

What to Do in an Emergency

• Call 911
• Use a fire extinguisher only if the fire is small and contained.
• Evacuate immediately if the fire spreads.
• Never re-enter a burning home.

Heating is necessary in winter, but it comes with risks that are easy to prevent. Simple steps, such as using heaters safely, maintaining equipment, and having working alarms, can significantly reduce the risk of a home fire. By following guidance from organizations such as the American Red Cross, National Fire Protection Association, and the U.S. Fire Administration, families can stay warm while keeping their homes safe.

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- Written by Vaishnavi Kalakota