ST. LOUIS, Mo. (WSIL) -� With temperatures dropping, Ameren urges customers to follow essential safety measures to prevent electrical fires. Space heaters and extension cords, commonly used during colder months, can pose fire hazards if used improperly.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, electrical fires and heating equipment are responsible for more than 46,700 fires and 870 deaths in the U.S. annually. Tim Frankenberg, fire safety engineer for Ameren, emphasized, over half of these fires occur between November and February, especially during night hours.Ìý
Ameren’s Top Five Fire Safety Tips:
Space Heaters: Keep them at least three feet from any flammable items and plug them directly into wall outlets. You should also turn it off before sleeping.
Extension Cords: Use temporarily and avoid hiding under rugs or pillows.
Flickering Lights: May signal faulty wiring. Address immediately.
Kitchen Appliances: Only plug in one heat-producing appliance per outlet.
Smoke Alarms: Change batteries when setting clocks back for daylight saving time on Nov. 3.
For more safety tips, visit .Ìý
