Metro family lucky to be alive after space heater sparks garage fire

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) — An Oklahoma family is lucky to be alive after they were trying to keep their pipes from freezing when suddenly, flames spread everywhere at their home in southwest Oklahoma City.

The Oklahoma City Fire Department wants to remind everyone of space heater safety after one caused a large fire starting in the garage.

"There was enormous amount of smoke coming from this home," said Scott Douglas with OKCFD.

Fire crews faced a wall of flames as they battled a house fire near Southwest 59th and Villa.

"They explained they were just trying to keep their pipes from freezing up. So they had two space heaters in the garage and they just placed them too close to some combustible items that caught on fire and started a house fire," said Douglas.

It's a common mistake a lot of Oklahoma families make.

"The problem that we see is, they put them too close to things that can burn," said Douglas.

Thankfully, the two people inside of the burning home escaped unharmed.

OKC Fire wants to remind people that unplugging their space heaters could save their lives.

"The space heater should be plugged directly into the wall outlet, so no extension cords," said Douglas. "Just make sure that you give these space heaters space. We'd like to say at least three feet away from anything that can burn."

Fire officials also note that regardless of the size, space heaters put out an enormous amount of heat.

"If you put them next to something, you know, that's flammable, it's just a matter of time before it catches on fire," said Douglas.

The fire department says since the 18th of this month, they've responded to more than 740 emergencies.