With frigid temperatures continuing throughout the weekend, the Biloxi Fire Department is reminding residents to take precautions to reduce the risk of home heating fires.
“Fire safety saves lives,” said Vincent Payne, deputy chief for fire prevention. “Misuse of portable or electric heaters are a main cause of residential fires in the winter months.”
Payne’s advice to minimize fire risks:
— Have all heaters at least 36 inches from curtains, furniture, bedding and papers.
— Never leave portable heaters unattended. Turn off portable heaters when leaving the house or going to sleep.
— Inspect the cord on the electric portable heater. If it is cracked or frayed or becomes hot, have the heater serviced or replaced.
— Never use an extension cord with portable electric heaters. It is a common cause of fires.
See more winter safety tips
See the current conditions and forecast
News & notes: Shelters, podcast
Cold weather shelters: Two cold-weather shelters opened at 5 p.m. today: the Salvation Army Cold Weather Shelter, 2019 22nd St. in Gulfport and the Fournier Multi-Purpose Building, 10395 Automall Parkway Blvd. in D’Iberville.
City Desk: Mayor Andrew “FoFo” Gilich talks about the new opportunities in east Biloxi in this week’s edition of the City Desk podcast. To listen, click here.
