Space heaters cause safety concerns

By Tenisha Dixon, News 20 at Five

With cold weather approaching, many residents will need to find alternate ways to keep warm. Some locals without units will purchase items such as space heaters for the winter months. However, there can be safety concerns with such heating devices.

“You want to keep any kind of combust[ible] or anything away from it,” said Lieutenant Gohlke of the Tallahassee Fire Department. “About three feet around the whole heater that should keep you pretty safe, and if you have children make sure they don’t get near it also.”

Gohlke says people should be cautious around electrical outlets. The heater should be plugged directly into the wall and not into a chord. You should also check for safety features before purchasing. House fires as well as other fatalities have occurred while using space heaters.