Here’s what the data shows:

• An average of 45,900 home heating fires occur in the U.S. each year

• Heating is the second leading cause of home fires, after cooking

• Fires most often happen between 5–9 PM, with the highest risk between 6–8 PM

• January sees the highest number of heating fires

• 75% of home heating fires are confined (often starting small)

• Nearly 30% of larger fires occur when heat sources are placed too close to items that can burn

Simple steps — like keeping space heaters at least 3 feet away from anything combustible and never leaving heating equipment unattended — can significantly reduce risk.

Visit our Fire & Life Safety for more home heating safety tips and ways to protect your household.

Stay warm. Stay alert. Stay safe.