Are alternative sources of energy a cause of fires?
According to a poll released by the American Red Cross, four in ten households use high-risk methods to help heat their homes. Alternative heating sources are involved in 74 percent of firerelated deaths, according to the U.S. Fire Administration. Are families using alternative sources of energy at a greater risk? Yes. The Red Cross poll found that 42 percent of families are using alternatives such as space heaters, fireplaces, or wood/coal stoves to stay warm and that 49 percent of families with children under 18 are using these same alternatives. Alternative heating sources are involved in 74 percent of fire-related deaths, according to the U.S. Fire Administration. Are alternative heating sources a good option? There are ways to use alternative sources of heating more safely. The Red Cross recommends that you keep all sources of fuel (paper, clothing, bedding and carpets or rugs) at least three feet away from heat sources, such as when using alternative heating like a space heater o
