Heaters can mean danger in enclosed spaces

The Hope Volunteer Fire Department is warning about the dangers of supplemental heating devices after a heater started a blaze in a shed overnight Sunday.

According to firefighters, they were called to a structure fire at shortly before 11 p.m. Sunday night and found the shed fully involved. Fire crews quickly extinguished the fire preventing it from spreading to nearby structures.

An investigation revealed that the shed housed the home’s well pump which had frozen. A heater had been used to thaw the pump, igniting the blaze.

They warn that you should use extreme caution when using supplemental heating devices, especially in enclosed or non-living spaces. You should always follow manufacturer’s guidelines and keep heaters clear of combustible materials.

No injuries were reported.

Other agencies assisting at the scene included the Clifford and Flat Rock Volunteer fire Departments, Hope Police and Columbus Regional Health medics.

Photo courtesy of Hope Volunteer Fire Department Facebook page