With the prediction of extreme cold in the area for Friday and Saturday, fire officials both in Rowan County and at the State Fire Marshal’s office are encouraging residents to use caution if they are using alternative forms of heat.

Bostian Heights Fire Captain Todd Taylor, who is also the police chief in Granite Quarry and Faith, said as of Thursday afternoon, earlier predictions of snow had changed over to ice, sleet and freezing rain for the Rowan County area, but said the cautions still apply.

“Planning ahead is always one step in the right direction,” he said.

People use a variety of alternative heat sources, from space heaters to fire places/wood stoves to candles, and each of those requires extra attention. In addition, the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning pose significant and increased risks during the cold weather season.

According to State Fire Marshal Brian Taylor, in 2023, North Carolina reported 146 fire fatalities, and while that number decreased to 122 in 2024, more needs to be done to prevent these tragic losses.

“Every year, we see tragic incidents caused by unsafe heating practices, unattended candles and undetected carbon monoxide in homes,” said Taylor. “By following some simple safety tips, we can all protect ourselves and our loved ones from these dangers.”

Spencer Fire Chief Michael Lanning said using “safe heating alternatives is essential. Don’t overload outlets with multiple heaters or connect multiple extension cords. Keep combustibles away from heaters and any open flames. Make sure smoke and CO detectors are working.” And he said anyone currently unhoused needs to make advance plans for a warm place to stay.

Pooletown Fire Chief Ryan Barkley added that residents should not wait to call 911.

“Even if people try to put a fire out themselves, don’t delay calling 911,” he said. “A fire can double in size every 30 seconds and can get out of hand quickly.” He added that when using any kind of fire, proper and safe disposal of any embers and ashes is also important. “Put them in a safe, fireproof container if possible but certainly far away from anything combustible.”

Space heaters are a common source of home heating fires, often due to misuse or lack of proper maintenance. There are a number of safety tips for the safe use of space heaters, starting with keeping a three-foot safety zone between heaters and  anything that can burn, including furniture, bedding, curtains and clothing.

Turn the heater off when it is unattended. Only use space heaters tested and certified by a recognized testing laboratory, such as UL (Underwriters Laboratories). Plug heaters directly into outlets and avoid using extension cords or power strips, which can overheat and cause fires.

Candles can provide warmth and ambiance during the winter months, but they also pose a fire risk if not used carefully. Follow these tips to use candles safely.

Never leave candles burning unattended; if you leave or go to bed, blow them out and make sure they are fully extinguished. Place candles in sturdy, heat-resistant holders that won’t tip over easily. Ensure candles are kept at least 12 inches away from anything that can burn, such as curtains, bedding or holiday decorations. Consider using flameless, battery-operated candles for a safer option if they are being used for light or ambience.

Taylor said several years ago, a family, in desperation, brought a charcoal grill into the house to use for heat.

“I know people get desperate, but you need to be extremely careful about what you bring inside the house,” he said. “If your house is not vented for a live fire, don’t bring it in the house. And charcoal is especially dangerous because it produces carbon monoxide, known as the silent killer.” In fact, charcoal burned indoors can undergo “incomplete combustion” because there is not enough oxygen for the charcoal to burn correctly, and that produces even more carbon monoxide, which can quickly build to deadly levels.

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas and a person will likely be unaware they are suffering poisoning until symptoms including headaches, dizziness, nausea, confusion and fatigue become severe. Anyone who thinks they may be suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning should get out of the building immediately and call 911 and advise emergency services of their suspicions.

Heating systems, fireplaces and portable generators can all produce carbon monoxide.  To protect all the residents in a home, consider placing carbon monoxide alarms on every level of the home and outside sleeping areas. Test alarms monthly and replace batteries as needed.

Portable generators must always be used outside and kept at least 20 feet from windows, doors, and vents.

Fires can and have been caused by flames that get beyond the fireplace fire box and into the walls and ceilings, so have furnaces, fireplace, and fuel-burning appliances inspected and serviced annually by a qualified technician. In addition, it helps to have a chimney cleaned every year to reduce the creosote buildup which can catch fire inside the chimney.