By Amanda Moses
For the past few weeks, temperatures have fluctuated between 40 degrees to well below 10 degrees with two snowstorms hitting New York. The icy temperatures are causing many New Yorkers to find respite from the cold using space heaters, electric blankets, and other means to stay nice and cozy this winter.
The FDNY and FDNY Foundation are urging everyone to keep in mind safety when utilizing these heating methods. Additionally, if there is a fire in your home always close the door when escaping! In doing so the fire is isolated to one area and it prevents smoke, heat, and flames from spreading throughout a building via the hallways and stairs.
Since the devastating fire that claimed the lives of 17 individuals in the Bronx, the FDNY has continued to stress the importance of utilizing space heaters safely, keeping them at least three feet away from combustible materials (this includes blankets, curtain, newspapers, and anything that can easily catch on fire.)
FDNY Space Heater Safety Tips:
- Turn off space heaters when you leave the room, house, or go to bed.
- Do not leave space heaters unattended.
- Only use equipment that has the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) mark which shows that the product has been safety tested.
- Turn off the space heater if the cord becomes hot.
- Plug space heaters directly into the socket instead of into an extension cord.
- Place the heater on the floor and never on a counter top or on furniture.
Another heating alternative you may use to stay warm is an electric blanket. IF you plan on using an electric blanket to warm up your bed, the FDNY urges you to turn it off before going to sleep.
The FDNY also advises New Yorkers to not use ovens or other appliances to keep your home warm. These items should only be used for the intended purpose and not to warm your apartment.
*Tips courtesy of the FDNY.
For more information visit https://www.fdnysmart.org/
