How to use your space heater safely

After taking its sweet time, winter is really and truly here in Central Indiana. And as the cold weather settles in, many turn to space heaters to keep warm.

They can be a good option, but be careful. According to the National Fire Prevention Association, heating equipment fires are the second most common cause of home fires in the U.S., and space heaters are often responsible.

Indianapolis Fire Department Battalion Chief Rita Reith says there's already been at least one fire caused by a space heater in Indianapolis this year.

If you're going to run space heaters, here's what IFD wants you to know to stay safe:

• Make sure your space heater is in good condition. If there are dings, dents, fraying electrical cords or other defects, it's time to get a new space heater. 
• Keep a three-foot perimeter around your space heater at all times. That includes blankets and bedding, no matter how much you want to snuggle up to the warmth.
• Never use a space heater unattended.
• Use one space heater at a time. Reith says many people, especially in drafty, older homes, sometimes run two or three at a time. That can overtax aging electrical systems.
• If you're using a space heater in your bedroom, keep it away from the edge of the bed and run the space heater to warm the room. Then, before you go to sleep, turn it off, unplug it and shut the door to your bedroom. You'll be safe and the room will stay toastier.

You can also find information on heating assistance here.

Allison Carter is Facebook editor at IndyStar. Follow her on Twitter @AllisonLCarter.