Officials with the Central Arizona Fire and Medical Authority report firefighters recently rescued a pet tortoise. Firefighters rescued the tortoise, named Littlefoot, from a backyard shed after a heat lamp fell into bedding. Firefighters were able to stop the potential fire and secure the area.
Fire officials say using heat lamps outdoors is dangerous because it exposes them to weather and temperature changes, creating electrical and fire risks. They add indoor lamps should be secured to prevent tipping, kept at least 18 to 20 inches from flammable objects, inspected for damage often, plugged directly into the wall without extension cords, used in a well-ventilated area, and only used with the proper bulbs.