Springfield, IL – As winter temperatures grip Illinois, state fire officials are urging residents to avoid a common heating mistake that can quickly turn deadly.
According to the Illinois State Fire Marshal, space heaters should never be plugged into power strips or extension cords, as many are not designed to handle the high electrical load required by these devices. Officials say improper use significantly increases the risk of residential fires, especially during cold snaps when heaters run for extended periods.
The warning was issued Wednesday as space heater use increases statewide, particularly in older homes, apartments, and during overnight hours. Fire officials say overloaded power strips can overheat, spark, and ignite nearby materials such as carpeting, furniture, or curtains.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports that space heaters are involved in thousands of home fires nationwide each year, many of which result in injuries or fatalities. Illinois fire officials stress that space heaters should always be plugged directly into a wall outlet and kept at least three feet away from anything flammable.
Residents are also advised to:
- Turn off space heaters before leaving a room or going to sleep
- Avoid using damaged cords or older heaters
- Never place heaters on soft surfaces like beds or couches
- Ensure working smoke detectors are installed on every level of the home
Fire departments across Cook County, DuPage County, Lake County, and the Chicago metro area report that heating-related fires typically spike during the coldest weeks of winter.
Officials say following basic safety guidelines can prevent tragedies and reduce emergency calls during already high-demand winter months.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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