NL FIRE OFFICIALS OFFER PORTABLE HEATER TIPS IN LIGHT OF DEADLY N.Y. CITY FIRE

In light of the deadly fire in New York City that killed 17 people, the New London Fire Marshal’s Office is offering tips on safe operation of portable heaters.

New London — In light of the deadly fire in New York City that killed 17 people, the New London Fire Marshal’s Office is offering tips on safe operation of portable heaters.

Fire officials in New York say Sunday’s fire at a Bronx high-rise apartment building was sparked by a malfunctioning electric space heater. Initial reports of the fire indicated 19 people died but the number of fatalities was revised by fire officials on Monday. Each year fire departments respond to an average of 48,000 of these types of fires, which result in an average of 500 deaths and 1,300 injuries.

Some simple steps for safe operation of portable heaters:

■ Keep anything that can burn 3 feet away from portable heaters or any heating equipment, such as a fireplace, wood stove or furnace.

■ Turn off the portable heater when you leave the room or when you go to bed.

■ Make sure your heater has been tested by a recognized laboratory.

■ Make sure your heater has automatic shut-off, so it shuts off if it tips over.

■ Ensure the heater is located on a solid, flat surface.

■ Plug the portable heater directly into a wall electrical outlet, do not use an extension cord.

Should you have a fire in your home or apartment, close your door when you evacuate. This may help contain the fire.

Visit https://youtu.be/nZAhqjsT1vI for more winter safety information from the U.S. Fire Administration. Please take the time to ensure you have working smoke alarms in your home; they should be located at a minimum outside and in the vicinity of bedrooms and at least one on every level of the home.

Anyone with questions can reach the New London Fire Marshal’s Office at (860) 447-5294.