Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service fire investigators say that the early Tuesday morning, March 12, 2019, McPhillips Street fire was caused by the unsafe use of a portable space heater.
Crews were called to the two storey home just minutes before 3:00 am for the report of a fire.
Firefighters quickly put out the blaze that was contained to one area of the home.
No injuries were reported and the residents were able to return to the home shortly after the fire was put out.
WFPS says that people can reduce the risk these types of fires by following some basic tips
- Purchase a heater with the seal of a qualified testing laboratory.
- Keep the heater at least one metre (3 feet) away from anything that can burn
- 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 to turn the heater off if it tips over.
- Keep space heaters out of the way of foot traffic. Never block an exit.
- Keep children away from the space heater.
- Plug the heater directly into the wall outlet. Never use an extension cord.
- Space heaters should be turned off and unplugged when you leave the room or go to bed.
