Cold weather is here, and area folks often find their residences and workplaces uncomfortable because of the low temperatures. The Hobbs Fire Department (HFD) takes this fact seriously and reminds all that being uncomfortable is not an excuse for failing to adhere to responsible safety measures when it comes to preventing fires.

The HFD is especially concerned about the proper use of heat lamps and space heaters during these times when temperatures sometimes hit freezing or even below freezing levels.

According to a December 6 City of Hobbs press release (PDF), the HFD “has responded to an increase in the number of structure fires where heat lamps or space heaters are potential causes of the fire.” Loss of life to both humans and pets is often the result of these senseless fires, not to mention the damage and/or total loss to property that results from them.

According to a New York Times article, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) points out that space heaters account for more than 1,000 home fires every year. And the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) goes even further, “noting that space heaters factor into about 43 percent of home heating-related fires (which includes items like water heaters and fireplaces) and 85 percent of associated deaths.” 

An article at TemperatureMaster.com adds to these statistics specifically when discussing heat lamps, pointing out that “heating equipment is the leading cause of electrical fire hazards in residential homes”. The article goes on to say that “in the United States alone, 52,000 cases of fire hazards are reported annually, causing deaths and injuries in the thousands and property loss in billions of dollars.

Tips from HFD About the Proper Use of Heat Lamps and Space Heaters

HFD is committed to bringing awareness to all area residents and visitors about the dangers of failing to properly use heat lamps and space heaters. To this end the department offers tips to ensure safety to all. The caveat – erring on the side of caution – should always be remembered.

• Tip One: Always keep heat lamps and space heaters in good running condition. Proper maintenance is essential. 

• Tip Two: Do not allow heat lamps and/or space heaters to run too long. 

• Tip Three: Do not place heat lamps and/or space heaters in unmonitored and/or unsafe locations. 

Failing to adhere to any one or any combination of these three precautionary measures creates a potential “ignition source for fires,” states the press release.

Other Precautions Specifically About Heat Lamps

Other important precautions specifically regarding heat lamps is to place them “at least three feet away from any combustible materials.” The HPD recommends that they are placed “on a set timer to prevent the bulb from bursting,” states the press release. 

Propers Supervision

Also remember that heat lamps and/or space heaters should never be left turned on unless they are properly supervised.

When it comes to pets the press release cautions the public to NEVER leave an unsupervised heat lamp turned on “to prevent animals from being exposed to the colder temperatures.” Do not place heat lamps in dog houses or leave them in garages “to keep pets there warm overnight or when the owner is out of the house, or any other unsupervised area with a pet.” 

Also remember that heat lamps and/or space heaters should not be left in “pets’ outdoor homes”. The HFD well understands the dangers of such actions and has responded to fires in such environments. The unfortunate result is usually death for pets when accidental fires are started.

The truth is that using heat lamps and/or space heaters unsupervised in outdoor pet shelters more likely puts “the animals’ lives at risk than to keep them safe”, states the press release. 

Smoke Detectors Are A Must

Finally, the HFD reminds everyone “to make sure your home has properly working smoke detectors installed on every floor.” Please remember that the HFD provides free smoke detectors to both elderly residents and families with new-borns.

In the press release the HFD reminds the public that smoke detectors should be tested once a month, “by pushing the ‘test’ button and fresh batteries should be installed at a minimum of every six months.”

The Hobbs Prevention Division is always available to answer any and all questions anyone may have. The division is also available to provide additional information about fire safety and heating concerns. Contact them at 575-391-8158 or on the Hobbs Fire Department’s Facebook page.

Photo by Achudh Krishna // Upsplash