As colder weather settles in and households look for quick ways to stay warm, space heaters become a popular solution for chilly bedrooms, living rooms, and home offices. These small devices can create instant comfort, especially in homes with uneven heating or drafty areas.

However, fire departments across the country are warning that while space heaters are convenient, they can also pose serious risks if used incorrectly.

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 built for low-wattage electronics like lamps, chargers, and small gadgets—not high-wattage appliances.

A space heater draws a large amount of electricity, which can cause a power strip to overheat within minutes. Fire departments have shared images of melted and charred power strips to show how quickly they can fail under the strain. Plugging a heater directly into a wall outlet is the only safe option.

In addition to safe powering, authorities stress the importance of placement and supervision. A space heater should always be kept at least three feet away from anything that can burn, such as curtains, bedding, or furniture.

It should be placed on a flat, sturdy surface and never left running unattended. Firefighters emphasize that these devices should not be used while sleeping, as a fire can spread rapidly before anyone has time to react.

Officials also encourage homeowners to practice general electrical safety during the winter months. Heat-producing appliances should be unplugged when not in use, and extension cords should never be used as permanent wiring.

Following these simple guidelines helps ensure a warm and safe home throughout the season.