Firefighters warn about alternative heating sources

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY)- Temperatures in the Desert Southwest do not drop too low during the winter months. This leads people to think it's a good idea to find different ways to heat their homes.

National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) says every year, thousands of heat-related fires happen due to improper use of heating alternatives. NFPA says do not use the oven or stove to heat your space. While it may seem like a chance to save money, it could cost someone's life.

Yuma Fire Department's, Mike Erfert, says when using alternate heating sources make sure to do the following:

• Keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet away from heating equipment.
• Only use heating equipment that has the label of a recognized testing laboratory.
• Make sure your space heater is a modern variety that will automatically shut off if it tips over.
• Turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed.
• Make sure all fuel burning equipment is properly vented to the outside to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Test smoke alarms at least monthly.

For more information about fire and injury prevention classes contact the YFD Public Information Office.