Space heater blamed for fire that killed puppies

A space heater placed too close to combustible materials started a fire that burned down a century-old farmhouse in Upper Hillsborough, says the P.E.I. fire marshal's office.

• Dog saves family from burning home

The fire started early in the morning of Dec. 7, home was fully engulfed in flames when fire departments arrived.

A family of four escaped without injuries. They were alerted by the family dog, which survived, but they were unable to get her newborn puppies out.

The fire marshal ruled the fire accidental.

Space heater tips

The fire marshal also issued several safety reminders on the use of space heaters.

• Ensure your smoke alarms are in good working order and installed properly. Test smoke alarms at least once a month.
• Keep anything that can burn at least one metre away from portable space heaters.
• Space heaters should have a one-metre, kid-free zone. Teachkids not to play near space heaters.
• Turn off portable space heaters when leaving the room and before you go to sleep.

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