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State Fire Marshal discusses safely using space heaters ahead of cold temperatures


A space heater. (WJAR File Photo)
A space heater. (WJAR File Photo)
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The Rhode Island State Fire Marshal shared tips on how to safely use a space heater, as temperatures are expected to drop this weekend.

"Everyone's going to run out to wherever they run out to and buy a space heater," said State Fire Marshal Timothy McLaughlin.

The Fire Marshal said fires could quickly start due to a space heater.

In February of last year alone, NBC 10 covered fires in Woonsocket, East Providence, Cranston that started due to a space heater.

Users should be cautious and keep the heater somewhere safe, away from couches, curtains, or anything that could catch fire quickly.

He also recommended keeping the space heater far away from pets and children.

"Plug it into a wall socket, don't plug it into a house extension cord that runs across your room and into another plug," he emphasized.

McLaughlin told NBC 10 that people should only use the space heater until the room heats up and then shut it off.

He suggested people always have an eye on their space heater, and never fall asleep while it is still on.

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