As temperatures drop across the northern hemisphere, millions of people rely on space heaters to stay warm.

But firefighters are urging everyone to be extremely cautious when using them —

especially when it comes to how they’re powered.

According to the Umatilla County Fire District in Oregon,

you should never plug a space heater into a power strip.

These devices simply aren’t built to handle,

the high electrical demand. “They can overheat or even catch fire,” the department warned.

The risk is real — in Ohio, a space heater plugged into a power strip ignited a couch, quickly consuming an entire home in flames.

Space heaters can reach up to 600°F,

making them a serious fire hazard if not used properly.

To use them safely, follow these firefighter-approved tips:

Plug directly into a wall outlet —

never into a power strip or extension cord, Keep a clear 3-foot radius around the heater,

free from furniture, curtains, or anything flammable,

Only use space heaters when you’re in the room —

never leave them unattended or running while sleeping,

Place heaters on flat, stable surfaces — not on furniture, rugs, or elevated surfaces,

Fires caused by space heaters are preventable.

Taking a few simple precautions can keep your home warm and safe this winter.