As the weather continues to get colder, people may turn to the use of space heaters to warm their homes and there are important safety reminders. 

Perry Fire Chief Chris Hinds says when it comes to people using portable heaters, they can be dangerous if not used properly. 

“According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission more than 25,000 residential fires, 300 deaths and 6,000 burn injuries every year are associated with the use of portable space heaters. So, when you’re purchasing a portable space heater there are some things that you should choose or consider when you are making these purchases.”

Hinds tells Raccoon Valley Radio one important thing to keep in mind is that the heater has been tested and labeled by an accredited testing laboratory. Hinds explains another important reminder for space heaters. 

“You want one that has a tip over protection on them, and tip over protection is an automatic shutoff switch that is built into the heater or it’s sensor activated switch.”

For more information on this topic and more tune into today’s Perry Fareway Let’s Talk Dallas County Program on 99.7FM and 1310AM KDLS.