Lexington County house fire leaves six displaced after kerosene heater left too close to combustibles

LEXINGTON COUNTY, S.C. (WOLO)– Six people are receiving assistance from the American Red Cross after being displaced due to a Lexington County house fire, say officials.

Lexington County Fire Service units along with units from Irmo Fire District, Columbia-Richland Fire and Newberry County Fire responded to a home fire in the 600 block of Meadowlark Road in the Chapin area just after 5 a.m. on Friday, November 22.

No injuries have been reported.

Lexington County Fire Service Investigators have determined the cause of the fire was a kerosene heater that was too close to combustibles.

The Lexington County Fire Service says safety must be a top priority as the temperatures drop since heating is the second leading cause of home fires. 

“The biggest mistake is putting something too close to a heating source…keep anything that can burn 3 feet away from space heaters, fireplaces, wood stoves and radiators. Remember that skin burns too. Make sure that people and pets stay 3 feet away,” says Fire Marshal Adam Harmon, LCFS.

It is recommended that people use portable heaters that have been recommended by a testing laboratory (look for the laboratory’s label).

These heaters should have an automatic shut-off switch so that if they are tipped over, they will turn off on their own.

Fire Marshal Harmon says, “Older adults are at increased risk from home fires and have a higher home fire death rate. Heating is the second leading cause of fire deaths for people ages 65 and over.”

 If you care for an older adult, plan for this increased risk. Here are some tips to keep in mind: 

• Check space heaters throughout the season. Make sure that bedding, throws and clothing are kept at least 3 feet away.
• Verify that fixed heating equipment is inspected every season and professionally cleaned when necessary.
• Talk with older adults to make sure that they understand their risk of burns and fire.
• Plan for emergencies. Older adults may move more slowly or have trouble hearing a smoke alarm because of hearing loss. Make a home fire escape plan around their abilities.
• Keep the telephone, hearing aids and eyeglasses next to the bed. If someone in your care uses a cane or wheelchair, decide who will help them get out in an emergency.

For additional fire safety information, reach out to the Lexington County Fire Service at (803)785-8632.