Stoves, Ovens Not A Good Alternative To Keep House Warm

People use some unconventional alternatives when trying to stay warm.

Putnam Fire Chief Tom Brown said any appliance that is not an approved source of heat should not be used.

“We actually see that pretty frequently,” Brown said.”People think when the power goes off and they have a gas stove that that’s an acceptable alternative and it is not. Stoves and ovens are made for cooking. Not heating homes.”

Brown said he has even seen grills and torpedo shop heaters used in homes which is not a safe alternative. Brown said when using unaccepted heating sources, the risk for burns increases.

“Biggest danger is number one kids,” Brown said. “That stove top that is unattended or that oven that is open what happens frequently is people forget that they have done that since it is not the norm.”

If you are using a fireplace, Brown said to make sure the chimney has been cleaned beforehand.