With temperatures dropping for the first time this winter, and chilly temperatures expected for the next week, Indiana State Fire Marshal Jim Greeson is advising caution with space heaters and other forms of alternative heating, as well as a review of smoke alarms. Greeson says space heaters should always be kept away from loose or flammable objects such as clothing, curtains, bedding and furniture. There should be at least a three-foot perimeter around space heaters at all times. He also says to avoid using candles or appliances, such as a stove or oven, to heat the home. Last year, Indiana had more than 70 fire-related deaths, and in a lot of these cases there was not a working smoke alarm in the home.
