Bronx residents urged to use caution when using space heaters in homes

Home heating costs are on the rise and many Bronx residents are looking for alternate ways to heat their homes. Space heaters are a popular alternative to boilers, but officials from the Red Cross say they're also the leading cause of residential fires. Portable and fixed space heaters caused more than 10,000 fires and nearly 200 deaths last year, according to the U.S. Product and Safety Commission. The Red Cross advises residents to place heaters at least three feet from wallpaper, bedding, clothing, pets and people. They say never leave a space heater operating when you leave the room or go to bed. Finally, never use space heaters to dry anything.