Local fire officials warn residents, Use caution when using heaters

EUREKA, Calif. (KIEM)-According to the Humboldt Bay Fire, its crews respond to heater-related fires, more frequently than they’d like to, this time of year.

This past weekend HBF responded to a fire caused when flammable items were placed on top of a floor heater – which they say, is common mistake this time of year.

Fortunately, no one was hurt in that incident.  

Community Risk Safety Specialist Amy Conlin with Humboldt Bay Fire says, there are hidden dangers when it comes to thermostats.

“A lot of people think that if you turn your thermostat all the way that your heater’s off when that’s not true. It actually drops below that lowest setting your heater is still going to kick on,” she said. “We really want to remind everyone, when the temperatures drop check on your floor vents, just really make sure that everything is away from those, so you don’t have any accidental fires.”

Additional ways to avoid a heater-related fire is to avoid placing floor coverings, clothes or furniture over floor furnaces or in front of a wall heater, move flammable items away from any types of heaters.

After a long break, have your furnace cleaned and serviced, just to ensure safe and efficient operation.

For more tips click here.