As it cools down, people are starting to turn on their fireplaces, space heaters and heated blankets. However, indoor heating accessories can be a safety hazard if they are not used properly.
Fire fighters have told us that this is the time of year where they see an increase in home fires due to misusing heating accessories. The fire department said there are some things to look out for before plugging them in.
"There's going to be a bunch of people breaking out their portable heaters, plugging them in the house," said Reno Fire Department Battalion Chief Paul Patocka. "These portable heaters need to be UL listed, and make sure they have an automatic shut off function, so if they tend to tip over or something like that it'll automatically turn off and not cause a fire right there."
A UL listed appliance is one that has been tested by UL Solutions for their Standards for Safety.
Firefighters encourage residents to keep anything flammable at least three feet away from these devices. Patocka also said that people will want to make sure heaters and blankets are not plugged into an extension cord, and that space heaters are placed on solid and level flooring.
Truckee Meadows Fire and Rescue (TMFR) told us that it's important for people to stay aware of their surroundings when using heating devices.
"It's just really important to be cognizant of these heating devices that you're using," said Adam Mayberry, the Communications Officer of TMFR. "Ensure that they're turned off when you go to bed, ensure that they're plugged directly into the wall socket and not via an electrical cord where there's really no regulation of power that could overheat and start a fire as well."
Firefighters recommend turning heated blankets on 30 - 45 minutes before going to bed, then turning it off right before falling asleep. That way residents can stay warm, cozy, and most importantly safe.
