10 Important and Useful Tips For Space Heater Safety

Space heaters can be a convenient way to provide heat for a small room. However, there are dangers associated with using them. In fact, space heaters were the top cause of fires involving home heating equipment, according to a 2016 report from the National Fire Protection Association. With a little vigilance, safely using a space heater is no sweat. Here are 10 important and useful tips for space heater safety.

1. Remember to always follow the safety instructions that came with your space heater.
2. Only use a space heater that has a guard around the heating area. This is particularly important in homes with children or pets.
3. Only use heaters that come equipped with an automatic shut-off feature if it tips over. If a space heater tips over, it can catch carpet, rugs or furniture on fire.
4. Buy a unit that’s an appropriate size for the size of the room you’re warming up. Don’t buy a heater that is too large for a small interior room.
5. Choose a space heater that’s been tested and certified by a national testing laboratory and meets certain safety standards.
6. Plug your space heater directly into a wall outlet. It can be hazardous to use extension cords or power strips with your space heater.
7. Never, ever, ever leave space heaters on when you’re sleeping or when you’re not home.
8. Don’t put anything near your heater! Keep at least three feet of space around your space heater. That means furniture, curtains, drapes, or anything else that could catch fire.
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9. Unless your heater is approved for outdoor use, don’t use in wet areas.

Here’s to keeping warm this winter!

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Photo and article courtesy of Plymouth Rock Assurance