EMFD Urges Caution When Using Electric Space Heaters

With the recent cold spells and a lot of winter still ahead of us, many residents may choose to supplement their central heating systems with portable electric space heaters. These devices are generally safe when used in accordance with the manufacturer’s safety guidelines and instructions. Still, fire safety experts remind users that heating is the second-leading cause of home fires and the third-leading cause of home fire deaths in the U.S., and that two in five deaths in space heater fires involve portable electric heaters.

The Board of Commissioners of the East Meadow Fire District cautions residents and businesses that if you plan to use portable electric heaters, make sure to follow these important safety tips and recommendations:

• Purchase a heater with a seal from a qualified testing laboratory (e.g., UL Listed, ETL Listed, CSA).
• Keep the heater at least three feet from anything that can burn, including people.
• Choose a heater that includes a thermostat and overheat protection.
• Place the heater on a solid, flat surface, not on rugs or carpets.
• Make sure the heater has an auto-shutoff feature that turns it off if it tips over.
• Keep space heaters out of foot traffic paths and never block an exit.
• Keep children away from the space heater.
• Plug the heater directly into the wall outlet and never use an extension cord.
• Space heaters should be turned off and unplugged when you leave the room, leave the house or go to bed.
• Test your home’s smoke alarms at least once a month.

“Our number one priority is the safety of the community we serve,” stated Commissioner Philip Fertitta. “By following the important safety tips noted above when using a portable electric heater, you can help keep your family safe and prevent most heating fires from happening.”

To report a fire or medical emergency, please call the EMFD dispatcher directly at 516-542-0576.

The East Meadow Fire District covers over 7.5 square miles and includes East Meadow as well as parts of Levittown and Westbury (Salisbury). Our dedicated corps of 220 volunteers responds to fires, medical emergencies, motor vehicle accidents and other emergencies from five fire stations throughout the community 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. The East Meadow Fire Department is always looking for new members to join their ranks as firefighters or emergency medical personnel; no experience is necessary. Volunteering provides valuable skills, training, and opportunities for personal growth. Benefits include 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.