Local emergency management officials are reminding Hamilton County residents they need to be careful with heating devices during the dangerously cold weather that will last for several days.
Putting comfort before safety can be deadly, Emergency Management Director Tony Reavley said in a news release.
“As temperatures continue to fall, people are looking for additional heat sources to heat their home and as a result, safety gets pushed aside,” Reavley said.
Space heaters cause one-third of home heating fires and four out of five home heating-fire deaths, according to Reavley.
Make sure space heaters are at least 3 feet away from anything that can catch fire, such as bedclothes, furniture, curtains and clothing. Look for frayed cords or damaged plugs.
If you use a chimney, have a professional check it for creosote build-up and bird or animal nests that can help start a house fire.
Make sure your home has smoke detectors and that the batteries are fresh.
If you have to go outside, be prepared. Dress in layers to keep warm. Wear gloves and a hat.
The release also encourages local residents to check on the elderly and people with disabilities, and to bring pets indoors.