Due to the recent spike in fire-related deaths, the State Fire Marshal’s Office is urging residents to remain vigilant when using space heaters and other heating sources. The office is also asking residents to have a working smoke alarm inside their homes.
Since December, investigators have responded to more than six residential structure fires that resulted in more than 10 deaths. Six of those deaths were in East Baton Rouge Parish since Jan. 1. According to investigators, four of the recent deaths may have been caused by space heaters.
When using any type of heating source, homeowners should incorporate a “3-foot rule.” There should be a space of at least 3 feet between a heating source and any combustibles such as furniture and decor. Ovens or open flame sources, such as candles, should never be used to heat homes.