Horseheads, NY (WENY)-- After a space heat sparked a deadly fire in the Bronx in New York City on Sunday, space heater safety is on the forefront of discussions.

Dirk Wheeler, an Assistant Fire Chief with Town and Country Fire Department says that these fires are caused by many factors.

"Like any other appliance, some people don't use them correctly," Wheeler explained, " sometimes they get worn out or there are accidents. so it can turn a useful appliance into a dangerous one easily."

Wheeler also mentioned that people use the wrong type of heater, and that also causes fires.

"If you're going to be working in an indoor space, you want an electric space heater. If you're working in an outside space, you want a propane or kerosene heater." Wheeler explained. "You don't want to switch those two. You don't want a kerosene one indoors, or an electrical one outdoors."

One of the factors in fires sparked by space heaters is when they are left in too long. Wheeler says you should never leave a heater plugged in overnight, and always unplug them if you are leaving. This is to prevent having accidents that could spark fires.

Wheeler also says to never use an extension chord or a surge protector. New models of space heaters have built in features that will shut them off if they are tipped or overheated. Extension chords also increase the risk of fire as well.

Wheeler says that if you do plan on using a space heater, make sure you have a fire plan in place, as well as working smoke detectors.

"We always say you need a working smoke detectors, you should have working CO detectors." He explained. "You need an escape plan and a working extinguisher in the home that someone should be trained in how to use it."

While there isn't a specific spot to put the heater, Wheeler suggests putting it away from furniture or drapes, make sure the chord can reach the outlet, and keep it out of the way of high traffic areas. He also says that you shouldn't put the heater on a table, keep them on the ground.