As colder weather arrives and households look for quick ways to stay warm, space heaters often become a go-to solution for chilly bedrooms, living rooms, and home offices. These compact devices can provide instant comfort, especially in homes with uneven heating or drafty spaces. However, fire departments across the country are reminding residents that while space heaters are helpful, they can pose significant risks if not used properly.

One of the strongest safety warnings from firefighters is to never plug a space heater into a power strip or surge protector. Power strips are designed for low-wattage electronics such as lamps, chargers, and small devices — not high-wattage appliances. A space heater draws a large amount of electricity, which can cause a power strip to overheat quickly. Fire departments have shared images of severely damaged power strips to show how fast they can fail under heavy electrical load. For safety, a space heater should always be plugged directly into a wall outlet.

Beyond proper powering, authorities also highlight the importance of placement and supervision. A space heater should be kept at least three feet away from anything that could catch fire, including curtains, bedding, and furniture. It must be placed on a flat, stable surface and should never be left on unattended. Firefighters also advise against using space heaters while sleeping, as fires can spread rapidly before anyone has a chance to respond.

Officials further encourage homeowners to follow general electrical safety practices during the winter season. Heat-producing appliances should be unplugged when not in use, and extension cords should never serve as permanent wiring. By following these simple guidelines, families can stay warm while maintaining a safe home environment throughout the colder months.