Dropping temperatures mean many local residents are pulling the space heaters back out of the closet, or headed to the store to buy a new one. Pella Fire Chief Doug Van Gorkom says those using a traditional ceramic heater or even the new infrared models should be cautious when using extension cords. He says portable heaters pull a lot of electrical current, which can overload light duty extension cords and potentially cause an electrical fire. Van Gorkom recommends plugging portable heaters directly into the wall outlet, or using heavy-duty extension cords, if necessary.