• Portable heaters take much of the blame for winter fires in homes during the cold temperatures in Montana, but another source may be on your bed or couch.
  • Heating blankets should be checked for wear and any damage to the internal wiring to prevent home structure fires.

More Dangerous than a Portable Heater in the Montana Cold?

As colder weather has entered our state, keeping our homes heated becomes a priority.  Keeping ourselves, pets and pipes warm becomes imperative.  And while we love just turning up the thermostat, in some cases that isn't possible.

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Since November of 2024, Great Falls has had 7 fires displacing several families.  That compared to just 1 in that time in the previous year.

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Alternate heat sources are often used to keep homes or rooms warm.  Most of us are familiar with the "milkhouse heater" that is common to use.  Over 80% of home fires are caused by these.  But there is another heat source that could also be a problem in your home if you haven't checked or replaced it recently.

Your Heated Blanket on Your Couch or Bed - Have You Used It Recently?

When was the last time that you checked your heated blanket?  Whether it be the one for cozy nights on your couch or the one that is covering your mattress.  Either could be an accident waiting to happen.

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According to Medicine Net, heated blankets that are 10 years or older are a serious hazard.  Statistics show 99% of old blankets are causes for fires.  Other suggestions for safety include:

  • Always buy a heated blanket with the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) mark to indicate the product’s safety.
  • Replace any cracked or worn heating blankets.
  • Replace older blankets even if they are in working condition. Blankets older than 10 years old are responsible for 99 percent of fires.
  • Make sure there aren’t any loose wires. The wires and attachments should fit properly.
  • Do not wash electric heating blankets that aren’t approved for machine wash or hand wash.

You can find more fire safety tips for heating sources here.

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