The County Executive’s Corner: Staying Warm & Safe

As we approach the winter months, I want to emphasize a message that can truly save lives: if you use space heaters in your home, please do so with extreme caution.

Space heaters are a leading cause of home fires during the colder season and are responsible for a disproportionate number of fire-related deaths nationwide. As a former police commander with the NYPD and Chief of Detectives in Baltimore, I’ve seen firsthand how quickly a dangerous situation can escalate, and I am committed to doing everything possible to prevent tragedies here in Rockland.

If you rely on a space heater, I’m asking you to take a moment to review these important safety tips from our Office of Fire and Emergency Services:

• Keep the heater at least three feet away from anything that can burn.
• Plug it directly into a wall outlet, never into an extension cord or power strip.
• Make sure the heater has been tested by Underwriters Laboratories (UL)—look for the certification mark on the unit or its packaging.
• And always close the door behind you when evacuating during a fire to slow the spread of smoke and flames.

Space heaters aren’t the only potential hazards around the home. According to FEMA, families should also be mindful of the following risks:

• Portable generators that are rarely used or improperly maintained.
• Leaking gas lines, damaged propane containers, or leaking vehicle gas tanks.
• Appliances or vehicles that have been exposed to water.
• Debris near severed electrical wires or transformers.
• Damaged or downed utility lines.
• Exposed electrical outlets or wiring.

Understanding the hazards around your home is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your loved ones. Please take a few minutes to walk through your home, check your equipment, and ensure you’re prepared.

Stay warm, stay vigilant, and take good care of yourselves and your families this winter.