The Knoxville Fire Department wants to remind citizens of space heater safety as below zero temperatures have returned to the area.

As the weather gets even colder, more people look for different strategies to keep themselves warm during the winter months, whether that be at home or at work. One of the most popular and convenient heating options is a space heater. With the benefits of a space heater, there also comes fire risk as well. According to the National Fire Protection Association, heaters should only be purchased with a seal of qualified testing, always be placed on a flat surface, kept out of the way of foot traffic, and should always be unplugged when you are not around. Knoxville Fire Chief Cal Wyman says there are additional precautions that can be taken with space heaters to prevent fires.

“We want to make sure we maintain a three foot diameter around them from anything that is combustible. We don’t want to see them plugged into any power stips or extension cords. They need to be plugged directly into the wall.”

It is also crucial to never allow young children around space heaters.