A house and garage in the 7900 block of West County Road 50 South caught fire on Christmas Eve.
Photo provided by Bargersville Fire
A home and garage outside of Bargersville were seriously damaged Christmas Eve after a space heater caught fire.
A couple and their dogs escaped without injury, Bargersville Community Fire Department officials said.
The homeowners discovered a fire in the garage of their home in the 7900 block of West County Road 50 South around 8 p.m. Sunday night. After calling 911, they attempted to extinguish the fire but were unsuccessful, according to Bargersville Fire.
Firefighters arrived to find the garage engulfed in flames and spreading to the attached residence. Upon arrival, the ceiling of the home collapsed after firefighters entered the residence, officials said.
The fire was brought under control in about 30 minutes. Officials ruled the fire accidental and caused by a space heater in the garage.
Fire Angels Inc. responded to provide family assistance.
Multiple agencies, including White River Township, Trafalgar, Edinburgh, Amity, Whiteland, Nineveh and Green Township fire departments assisted Bargersville. New Whiteland Fire Department provided station coverage.
MORE INFORMATION ADDED: 4:20 P.M.
This is the second residential fire caused by a space heater in Bargersville in a little over a week, officials said.
Deputy Fire Chief Mike Pruitt wants to remind residents of the dangers of space heaters and the importance of using them safely.
“Space heaters are an effective way to provide supplemental heat, but safety is paramount,” Pruitt said. “Following these safety tips lets you enjoy the warmth without compromising your well-being.”
Pruitt suggests considering the size of the room, type of heater and its safety features when purchasing a space heater. Always read the instructions and follow them carefully.
It is important to keep the heater away from flammable items. Maintain a safe distance of at least three feet between the heater and flammable materials such as rugs, curtains, bedding and furniture, Pruitt said.
Additionally, safe heaters should be placed on a stable surface and never be left unattended. Setting a space heater on a level and stable surface minimizes the risk of it being accidentally knocked over, he said.
Pruitt also says people should turn off space heaters when going to bed or leaving the room. People should also use a thermostat or timer, or purchase a heater with built-in features to avoid overheating. This will help enhance safety and energy efficiency, he said.
People should properly ventilate fuel-powered space heaters and check cords and plugs regularly for damage. If a cord or plug is damaged, stop using it immediately and replace it, Pruitt said.
Finally, people should install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and test them for optimal safety, Pruitt said.
