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Skip the Strip: Using space heaters safely

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Skip the Strip: Using space heaters safely

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — House fires are more common in the winter than any other time of year. One way to prevent them, is to make sure you’re using your space heater correctly.

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“Space heaters, if they run too long, they can overload your circuit which can obviously cause a loss of power or the overheating of a receptacle. You kind of want to use them intermittently, if possible,” said Electric Construction Company Project Manager Jason Kruse.

Experts say you should plug your space heater directly into a wall outlet that can withstand the wattage.

“The wattage on a space heater is not intended for use with a plug strip. You could cause overheating of the plug strip which could lead to a fire,” said Kruse.

Fire crews haven’t responded to any calls involving space heaters this winter, but they have in the past. They recommend placing your heater on a hard, level surface in a safe area.

“You want to make sure that you position the space heater without any kind of combustible objects within three feet,” said Fire Division Chief Steve Fessler.

Most newer models of space heaters are designed to automatically shut off if they tip over. But fire crews say no matter what, you should never leave your space heater unattended.

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Skip the Strip: Using space heaters safely

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