Two Blazes In Burson Highlight Dangers Of Heaters And Chimneys

Calaveras County, CA — Two blazes in the Burson area of Calaveras County this week involving an electric heater and a chimney have fire officials reminding the public of winter fire safety.

Last night Calaveras Consolidated Fire (CCF) battled a blaze in an RV near Lake Camanche in Burson that resulted in 2nd degree burns for one of the residents. They were sleeping on a couch and awoke to the flames. The individual was taken by ambulance to a nearby hospital for treatment. There is no update on the person’s condition this morning.

CCF officials determined the fire was ignited by a portable electric heater. They offer these safety tips for portable electric heaters:

• Never operate a heater you suspect is damaged. Before use, inspect the heater, cord, and plug for damage. Follow all operation and maintenance instructions. Visit www.cpsc.gov or www.SaferProducts.gov to see if your electric heater has been recalled.
• Never leave the heater operating while unattended or while you are sleeping.
• Keep combustible material such as beds, sofas, curtains, papers, and clothes at least 3 feet (0.9 m) from the front, sides, and rear of the heater.
• Be sure the heater plug fits tightly into the wall outlet. If not, do not use the outlet to power the heater.
• During use, check frequently to determine if the heater plug or cord, wall outlet, or faceplate is HOT! If the plug, outlet, or faceplate is hot, discontinue use of the heater and have a qualified electrician check and/or replace the plug or faulty wall outlet(s). If the cord is hot, disconnect the heater and have it inspected or repaired by an authorized repair person.
• Never power the heater with an extension cord or power strip.
• Ensure that the heater is placed on a stable, level surface and located where it will not be knocked over.
• When purchasing a heater, ask the salesperson whether the heater has been safety-certified. A certified heater will have a safety certification mark.
• Never run the heater’s cord under rugs or carpeting. This can damage the cord, causing it and nearby objects to burn.
• To prevent electrical shocks and electrocutions, always keep electric heaters away from water, and NEVER touch an electric heater if you are wet.
• SPREAD THE NEWS! Inform family, friends, and coworkers of the ways to use an electric heater more safely.

In another house fire on Wednesday, November 13, firefighters responded to a chimney fire on Toreno Way in Burson. Fire crews extinguished the blaze with no spread to the attic.

CCF officials want to remind everyone who uses a fireplace to have it annually inspected and cleaned by a licensed chimney sweep service.

“Clean chimneys don’t catch fire,” added CCF officials. “Additionally, the Sweep Service Professional may have specific maintenance recommendations depending on how you use your fireplace or stove.”