COLUMBIA, S.C. — With freezing temperatures this week, the Columbia-Richland Fire Department is urging residents to take extra precautions when heating their homes.
“Any source of heating in your home can cause a fire, but some devices are more risky than others,” said Columbia-Richland Fire Chief Aubrey D. Jenkins. “Space heaters and fireplaces are heating sources that definitely require the most attention. Leaving either unattended for any length of time can have drastic consequences.”
According to the National Fire Protection Association, space heaters and heating stoves were the leading causes of home heating-related fires from 2019 to 2023, resulting in the most fire deaths, injuries, and property damage during that period.
- Fire officials shared several safety reminders for residents
- Keep flammable items at least three feet away from heat sources
- Turn off space heaters before leaving a room or going to bed
- Never power space heaters using extension cords or power strips
The department also stressed the importance of testing smoke alarms monthly and installing carbon monoxide detectors on each level of the home…