Staff report

SALISBURY — When temperatures dropped to their lowest last week, Rowan County Emergency Services says at least 15 family pets died because of accidents involving heat lamps and extension cords.

Fire Division Chief Deborah Horne said that during an average winter, the office sees one to two animal deaths caused by heating devices. But she said this year’s number is “more than above average.”

“We all understand that not every pet or animal can be brought inside your home,” Horne said in a news release. “All of us at the Rowan County Fire Division have animals, and I have used heat lamps in my barns for cattle on exceptionally cold nights.”

Horne said that owners who must keep pets outside in cold conditions should heed the following tips to avoid losing a pet:

• If you use a hanging heat lamp, do not rely solely on the hanging mechanism that comes attached. Make sure the lamp is secure and that the hanger does not hinder the lamp. Pull lightly on it to make sure it will not easily fall.

• Arrange the hanging heater so that it is not too close to combustible materials like hay or straw.

• If your heater is attached with an extension cord, make sure you are using a cord of the correct size and amperage that is UL Listed and Tested. Make sure that it is not hanging because the animals may pull or chew on the cord.

• Cords should not be nailed directly to a board or wall. Wiring or cable clamps can be used to make sure they are not rubbing or crimping the cord or its insulation.

• Every time you use the heater, make sure to check the heater and cords for any cuts or breakage.

• A cord should never be run through doors that closes on it. This could potentially damage the cord and may overheat or short, causing a fire.

• Always follow the manufacturer’s directions for use.

• Never cut a cord or manipulate the cord in any way to make it longer.

For more information, call Horne at 704-216-8916.