The arrival of fall brings cooler temperatures and an increase in heating-related fires. This month a baseboard heater fire caused major damage in an apartment building in Seattle. Fortunately, no one was injured, but the damage was extensive.
As a reminder, make sure heaters have space. A fire can start if curtains, furniture, pillows, papers or other items are too close to a baseboard or portable heater.
The Seattle Fire Department recommends 12 inches of clearance for baseboard heaters and three feet for portable space heaters. A baseboard heater may still come on, even if the heater is turned off.
Check out this heating safety video.
