As energy costs reach record highs, many Americans are turning to portable electric space heaters and wood-, pellet- coal or kerosene-burning stoves, and other non-traditional heating sources to defray costs. With the increase in use comes an increase in fire risk. Fort Gordon Fire Department encourages residents to use caution when using alternative heating equipment this winter.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), nearly half of all home-heating fires occur during the winter months. On average, NFPA research show that heating equipment is involved in roughly 70,000 reported U.S. home structure fires, with associated loss of more than 600 civilian deaths, almost 1,600 civilian injuries and more than $1 billion in direct property damage.

“As a leading cause of home fires, heating safety is a concern for every community every winter. This year, with the projected increase in use of alternative heating equipment, families need to be especially vigilant to use all heating appliances properly,” said Fire Inspector Joseph T. Hamm.

Additionally, the Fire Prevention Office will conduct courtesy fire inspections in family housing upon request from housing residents, including the testing of their home smoke detectors and get the word out about preventing home heating fires.

Fort Gordon Fire Department is encouraging residents who use space heaters and fire places this winter to follow this advice:

• Space heaters need space. Keep all things that can burn, such as paper, bedding or furniture, at least 3 feet away from heating equipment.
• Turn portable heaters off when you go to bed or leave the room.
• Have your chimney inspected each year and cleaned if necessary.
• Use a sturdy fireplace screen.
• Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home. For the best protection interconnect all smoke alarms throughout the home — when one sounds, they all sound. Test smoke alarms at least once a month.
• When using a fuel-burning portable heater, always use the proper fuel as specified by the manufacturer. When refueling, allow the appliance to cool and refuel outside or in a well-ventilated area.
• Install and maintain a carbon monoxide alarm in a central location outside each sleeping area.
• Never use an oven to heat your home.
• For fuel assistance, contact the National Energy Assistance Referral line at 1-866- 674-6327 or visit www.energynear.org.