ROCK ISLAND, Ill. — Updated Story, Nov 29: News 8 confirmed that Rock Island firefighters responded to the house fire at 4:37 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 28. A family of nine lived in the home and were evacuated safely with no injuries. According to an investigation, the fire started in the attic of the home and was caused by overloaded electrical conductors due to multiple space heaters being connected to the same circuit.
Rock Island Fire Marshal Greg Marty says space heaters are commonly used during this time of the year, however, users must keep safety in mind when using them.
"We recommend using the conventional heating system in the home," Marty said. "If you have a conventional forced air furnace or a boiler, maintain that system that's the safest way to heat your home."
Marty added if there's a need to use a space heater, "One needs to make sure that there are no combustibles around the space heater." It's also recommended to use a modern space heater as they have safety features that can help prevent fires.
On average, there are 60 structure fires in Rock Island every year, with around 10 of them being caused by home heating issues.
Original Story, Nov 28: Rock Island firefighters battled a blaze at a two-story home on Tuesday night.
News 8 received word about the fire near the corner of 12th St. and 7th Ave. in Rock Island shortly before 5:30 p.m. on Nov. 28. Our photographer saw several crews responding to the fire, which caused visible damage to the side and upper eaves of the north side of the home before being put out.
According to fire officials at the scene, the family who lived inside the house was unable to stay at the home for the evening following the fire and has been temporarily displaced.
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