Core Insights - Improper use of common heating appliances can lead to significant fire hazards, as demonstrated by recent fire safety tests conducted by firefighters [2][4]. Group 1: Heating Appliances Risks - Electric blankets, when folded and powered, can cause internal wiring short circuits, leading to fire risks [4][6]. - A "little sun" heater reached temperatures around 400 degrees Celsius within 30 seconds, demonstrating the potential for rapid ignition when in contact with flammable materials [4][6]. - Towels placed near the "little sun" heater were completely burned through in eight minutes, indicating the extreme heat generated by these devices [4]. Group 2: Safety Guidelines for Heating Devices - Electric blankets should be laid flat and not folded during use, and should be unplugged after reaching the desired temperature to prevent overheating [4][6]. - Users should avoid placing electric blankets on metal objects or sharp items to prevent damage and short circuits [6][8]. - Electric heaters should be kept away from open flames and flammable substances, as proximity can lead to explosive situations [6]. Group 3: General Heating Tips - Other popular heating devices like warmers and heated pads should not be applied directly to the skin to avoid burns, and damaged units can leak hazardous materials [6][8]. - Adjusting common warming methods, such as layering blankets, can enhance warmth effectively, with unique layering techniques yielding better results [10].

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the dangers associated with improper use of heating devices during the recent cold snap in various regions of China, emphasizing the need for safety precautions to prevent accidents and fires. Group 1: Recent Incidents - A fire incident occurred in Jiangxi Province due to prolonged use of an electric heater, which ignited surrounding materials, leading to a fire that required evacuation of an elderly person [4] - Another fire in Henan Province was caused by improper use of an electric blanket, which ignited flammable materials [6] Group 2: Risks of Common Heating Devices - Improper use of heating devices, such as electric blankets and "little sun" heaters, can lead to significant fire hazards [7] - A test demonstrated that an electric blanket, when folded, can cause short circuits and ignite, while a "little sun" heater can reach temperatures of around 400°C, leading to combustion of nearby materials [11][13][15] Group 3: Safe Usage Guidelines - Electric blankets should be used flat, not folded, and should not be left on for extended periods. They should be unplugged before sleeping and replaced if older than six years [18] - Electric heaters must be kept away from flammable materials and should not be used to dry clothes, as this can create a fire hazard [19] - Other popular heating devices like warmers and heated pads should not be applied directly to the skin to avoid burns, and care should be taken to prevent damage to electrical components [21][23] Group 4: Alternative Heating Methods - Adjusting common warming methods, such as layering blankets in specific ways, can enhance warmth effectively, with a unique "sandwich" method proving particularly effective [25]