Neighbor News
EMFD Urges Caution When Using Electric Space Heaters
Fire Commissioners offer portable electric space heater safety tips in light of the fatal fire in the Bronx
According to fire safety experts, heating is the second leading cause of home fires and the third leading cause of home fire deaths in the U.S. The recent fire that claimed 17 lives in the Bronx was believed to have been started by a malfunctioning portable electric space heater, according to FDNY officials. The Board of Commissioners of the East Meadow Fire District reminds residents that if they need to use a portable electric space heater to provide supplemental heat, to exercise great care when using the device and offer the following safety tips.
- Keep anything that can burn, such as paper, fabric, and other material, at least three feet away from heating equipment.
- Place electric space heaters on a solid, level surface, never on a carpet or rug.
- Remember to turn off portable heaters when going to bed or leaving the house.
- Maintain a three-foot child-free zone around a portable heater.
- Plug electric space heaters directly into a wall outlet; never use an extension cord because it can create an overload and cause a fire.
- Test your home’s smoke alarms at least once a month.
“Our hearts go out to the victims and their families of the terrible and tragic fire in the Bronx,” stated Commissioner Keith J. Hoffman. “By following a few essential safety tips when using a portable electric heater, you can help keep your family safe and prevent most heating fires from happening.”
The East Meadow Fire Department, which covers East Meadow and parts of Levittown and Westbury (Salisbury), is always looking for new members to join their ranks as firefighters or emergency medical personnel; no experience is necessary. The fire department provides the training required. There are numerous benefits associated with volunteering, including tax breaks, college scholarships, annual health checkups, life insurance, and a service award pension program, all at no cost. For more information on volunteering with the East Meadow Fire Department, visit www.eastmeadowfd.com, or call 516-542-4565.
