The Fire Department has determined that the fire in the four-unit building at 1415 Taylor Avenue N. early Saturday morning was caused by a “baseboard heater that came into contact with combustible materials,” totally in $65,000 worth of damage. In a report released today, the Fire Department took the opportunity to give some extra fire safety advice.

Fires caused by furniture, bedding, and other materials placed too close to baseboard heaters and portable heaters are the most common types of heating-related residential fires.

Their tips for warming your home or apartment and staying safe:

• Give your heaters space – do not put anything next to a heater.
• Never use an extension cord with a portable heater.
• Make sure your portable heater is tested by an independent testing laboratory and has an automatic shut off feature if it tips over.
• Turn portable heaters off before leaving the room or before going to bed.
• Clean or replace heating furnace filters regularly.
• Never permit electrical cords to drape across heaters.
• Inspect all heating equipment yearly and always hire an experienced electrician to do any necessary repair work on your baseboard heaters.