DURHAM -- As temperatures dip below freezing, more and more people are bringing out their space heaters. Fire officials want to warn people about using them.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, space heaters are among the leading causes of winter fire deaths.
"Most common mistake with portable heaters is putting the heater too close to things that will burn," says Durham Fire Deputy Chief Chris Ianuzzi.
Ianuzzi says the first rule is to make space heaters are at least three feet away from anything that could catch on fire.
"Paper, clothing, furniture, fabric," he said.
Ianuzzi also says heaters should be directly plugged into the wall, and most modern heaters shut off when they're tipped over.
When it comes to kerosene heaters, Ianuzzi says people should refuel them outside, using only kerosene and a siphon pump. He also suggests cracking open a window when using a kerosene heater.
"It's designed to burn with the correct amount of oxygen," he said.
Ianuzzi also urges people to buy smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and make sure they're working.
For more safety tips, click here.