It's that time of year where the temperature occasionally drops below tolerably cold, and especially with the chilly temperatures we're expecting this week, many people will be pulling space heaters out of garages and closets.
It's also that time of year where fire departments get increased calls about house fires started by space heaters. Clay county fire battalion chief Russell Benes tells our news partner channel 4 he's hoping for fewer calls this year.
"Space heaters are supposed to be observed so when you go to sleep at night you're supposed to turn your space heater off. When you leave home, turn your space heater off. Don't leave it unattended."
Benes says using a space heater as a primary source of heat can be a bad idea if you're not careful. He provided a few tips for ensuring you and your family are safe while trying to keep warm.
- NEVER leave your space heater unattended.
- Don't leave the heater near anything flammable, and make sure children stay clear
- Using an oven or a stove as a heat source is very dangerous
