Maine has been seeing many fires in the past few weeks, including a fatal fire in Chelsea on New Year's Day, a fire that resulted in a home becoming a total loss in Abbot on Tuesday, and a Paris chimney fire that destroyed a home and caused a dog to die on Thursday. While some of these fires are still being investigated, these terrible events are a warning to other fellow Mainers to be cautious during the cold winter months when trying to keep warm in your home.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, we are at the peak time of the year for fires caused by heating your home. Home fires due to heating your home are the second most leading cause for home fires and are actually the result of 1 in 3 home fire deaths.

usfa.fema.gov
usfa.fema.gov
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During this time of year, an extra heating source may be needed and an efficient, easy to move around portable space heater is a common appliance to get warmer quicker. Unfortunately, this convenient and cheap heating solution is also the biggest culprit of home fires.

Space heaters are a common cause of home fires and account for 44%, nearly half, of home fires. The National Fire Protection Association recommends you be careful where you place your space heater.  Be sure to place it on a flat service and never leave it unattended.  When purchasing your portable heater, select one that has temperature control and overheat protection.

Lastly, plug your portable space heater directly into the wall and do not use an extension cord.

Keep warm but keep safe during the coldest parts of this winter.  More portable space heater tips can be found at the 'National Fire Protection Association' website.

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