There’s no time like the coldest morning of the eyar so far to get in a reminder about space heater saftey:

According to the National Fire Protection Association, in 2009, heating equipment was involved in an estimated 58,900 reported U.S. home structure fires. These fires were responsible for 480 deaths, 1,520 injuries and $1.1 billion in direct property damage. They for 18 percent of all reported home fires.

Space heaters, whether portable or stationary, accounted for one-third of home heating fires and four out of five of home heating fire deaths. Charlotte County Fire/EMS reminds us to check for frayed wires or loose connections and not use the heart if its damaged; put the heater at least three feet away from anything that can burn; never place your heater on a rug; and trun it off if you are leaving, going to bed, or aren’t using it.