RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — In December of 2014, a massive fire destroyed a home in Jackson Ward. Firefighters believed a space heater was to blame for the blaze.
Space heater fires are extremely dangerous. The Consumer Product Safety Commission reported that they cause more than 25 thousand fires nationwide every year.
Here are some things you should know before turning on your space heater:
- Use a space heater that has been tested to the latest safety standards and has been certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory. These heaters have the most up-to-date safety features. Older space heaters may not meet newer safety standards. Always follow the manufacturer’s directions for proper use.
- Place the heater on a level, hard, nonflammable surface, such as a ceramic tile floor.
- Keep the heater at least three feet away from bedding, drapes, furniture, and other flammable materials.
Click here for more safety tips.
8News sister station WTNH contributed to this report.
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