Colder Overnight Temperatures Prompt Home Heating Fire Safety Reminder - 01/14/26

SALEM, Ore. – With below freezing overnight temperatures and recent home fires related to heating, the Oregon State Fire Marshal would like to remind Oregonians about the importance of fire safety. Since January 1, the agency has investigated 10 home fires across the state from various causes.

This past weekend, the Baker City Fire Department responded to two home fires related to fireplaces and chimneys. In Portland, a 64-year-old woman was taken to the hospital after a house fire Monday morning. Portland Fire and Rescue said she later died. Investigators believe the suspected cause of this fire is use of an extension cord on an auxiliary space heater.

“These fires come as a tragic reminder of the importance of home heating fire safety, the second leading cause of home fires every year in Oregon,” State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said. “Following fire safety guidance and testing smoke alarms regularly are important steps every Oregonian can take this winter.”

The Oregon State Fire Marshal offers these tips:

• Keep things that burn, like paper, curtains, bedding, or furniture, at least three feet away from all heating equipment, including fireplaces, wood stoves, and pellet stoves.
• Always plug space and portable heaters directly into a wall outlet and never into an extension cord or power strip.
• Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional.
• Keep space heaters out of the way of foot traffic. Never block an exit.
• Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed.
• Test smoke alarms at least once a month.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, nearly half of heating equipment fires (46%) occurred in the three-month period from December through February.

In the first two weeks of 2026, three fire-related deaths were reported to the Oregon State Fire Marshal.
 

For more home heating safety tips, visit the OSFM’s website.

Oregon State Fire Marshal Reminds Oregonians Of Carbon Monoxide Danger During Power Outages - 12/17/25

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon fire service, road crews, and power companies are busy cleaning up after a strong windstorm that swept across the Pacific Northwest. The storm knocked out power to thousands of Oregonians. The Oregon State Fire Marshal would like to remind everyone of the danger of carbon monoxide when heating or temporarily powering your home. The deadly gas can build up quickly in your home.

“Carbon monoxide is a deadly odorless and tasteless gas produced by generators, propane heaters, and other carbon burning sources,” State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said. “Having working carbon monoxide alarms in your home and taking a few simple steps can mean the difference between life and death.”

Carbon monoxide safety tips:

• Only use heaters intended for indoor use.
• Never use an oven or stovetop to heat your home.
• Always use generators outdoors in a well-ventilated space, at least 20 feet from any building or opening.
• Ensure proper ventilation for all fuel-burning appliances, including fireplaces, water heaters, furnaces, and dryers.
• Keep vents and chimneys clear of debris and check for any gaps, leaks, or rust.
• Never leave a car running in the garage.
• Always use barbecue grills outside away from all doors, windows, vents, and any building openings.

Oregonians should also know the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning:

• headache
• dizziness
• nausea
• confusion

If you experience these symptoms, leave the area, get to fresh air, and call 9-1-1.

First responders see an increase in calls related to carbon monoxide during the winter months. It is important to practice these carbon monoxide tips as more storms are forecasted over the coming week. For more tips, please check out the fire safety section of our website at oregon.gov/osfm or the National Carbon Monoxide Awareness Association.

About the Oregon State Fire Marshal

The Oregon State Fire Marshal became an independent state agency in July 2023. The agency is dedicated to protecting people, property, and the environment from fire and hazardous materials. The Oregon State Fire Marshal works with local fire agencies, communities, and other partners to strengthen fire prevention, preparedness, and response statewide. Please note: the Oregon State Fire Marshal is no longer an office.