FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
November 4, 2025

For More Information Contact:
Jon Cook
Fire Chief
660.665.3734

Helpful tips to safely use a space heater this winter

(Kirksville, MO) - Portable space heaters have become a popular way to heat single rooms or areas in a home. With colder temperatures arriving, the Kirksville Fire Department wants to remind residents of some simple ways to use these devices safely.

Each year, the department responds to fires caused by the misuse of these heaters. Follow these recommendations to remain warm and safe this season:

• Only buy a heater with the seal of a qualified testing laboratory.
• Plug the heater directly into a wall outlet and never into an extension cord.
• Keep the heater at least three feet away from anything that can burn, including people.
• Choose a heater with a thermostat and overheat protection.
• Place the heater on a solid, flat surface.
• Make sure your heater has an auto shut-off function if it tips over.
• Keep heaters out of the way of foot traffic and never block an exit.
• Heaters should be turned off and unplugged when you leave the room or go to sleep.

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