Do not plug space heaters into power strips, fire officials warn

The colder weather is here and so is the need to stay warm, but if you use a space heater, do not plug it into an extension cord or a power strip.

Doing so is a fire hazard, according to the fire authorities.

Power strips and extension cords are not equipped to handle the extra current flow needed to power a space heater and can overheat and even catch fire.

Firefighters said heating elements in a space heater can get up to more than 500°F to 600°F. They are reminding residents that a space heater should only be plugged directly into the wall, and always keep an eye on it when it's in use.

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