The Most Dangerous Appliance in Michigan Homes This Winter

Michigan... she's a cold gal.

The Coldest Temperature Ever Recorded in Michigan

Michigan can have such cold harsh winters, the lowest temperature ever recorded in Michigan occurred on February 9th, 1934 in Vanderbilt when the temperature got down to -51 F.

So, keeping those frigid temps in mind, Michiganders find a way to stay warm. But some of those methods are more dangerous than others.

Get our free mobile app

And there's a good chance you have the most dangerous appliance this winter sitting in your home or office space right now.

The Most Dangerous Heating Appliance in Michigan Homes

That dangerous appliance is the space heater.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), from 2014 through 2018, "fixed or portable space heaters" were responsible for 44% of home fires and 81% of civilian deaths across the nation.

Read Related: Why a Warmer Michigan Winter Could Mean More Snow

From 2016 to 2020, space heaters caused approximately one-third of fires, but were responsible for almost 9 out of 10 deaths. And almost half of the home fires caused by space heaters happen between December and February... Michigan's coldest months.

Space Heater Safety Tips

If you do happen to need to use a space heater this winter, there are some things you can do to make sure you use it as safely as possible.

• Make sure you have working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors/alarms. If you need one and can't afford one, the American Red Cross or the Lansing Smoke Detector Program.
• Set up space heaters at least three feet away from furniture, curtains, and combustible material.
• NEVER use a space heater while you're sleeping.
• Keep children and pets away from space heaters.
• Make sure you plug the space heater directly into the wall outlet, and not a power strip. Plugging space heaters into a power strip or an extension cord can cause it to overheat.

Stay safe this winter!