Space Heaters and Fires

1/26/2017 (Permalink)

Space Heaters

The dangers of space heaters are heating up So. Cal this winter and you need to be aware of them. 

Space heaters can be a quick way to heat up a room. However, they can be as dangerous as they are convenient if used improperly. Space heaters cause 25,000 home fires a year, and 6,000 emergency room visits, according to the Harvard University Environmental Health & Safety group.

Approximately one-third of all house fires nationwide happen during the cold home-heating months between December and February. Equipment that is intended to add a little extra warmth, such as space heaters, are the leading cause of these fires, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPE).

Before using a space heater, make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are in good working condition.

Check to make sure the heater is clean and in good condition, and have all problems professionally repaired.

Place heater out of high-traffic areas and on a level, hard, non-flammable floor surface—NOT on carpets, furniture or countertops.

Space heaters have one purpose —to provide supplemental heating. Never use them to thaw pipes, cook food, or dry clothing or towels.

Remember to keep space heaters at least three feet from combustible liquids like fuel, spray cans and paint, as well as flammable items such as draperies, blankets, and sofas.

Never allow pets or children near an electric heater. Accidental contact could result in serious shock or burns.

Do not overload circuits. Never use extension cords or multiple plugs with a space heater, and make sure the unit is not plugged into the same circuit as other electric appliances.

If your space heater is plugged into a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) and it trips, don’t assume there is something wrong with the GFCI. Immediately stop using the heater until it can be checked out by a professional— if not, a serious shock could occur.

Never leave space heaters unattended. Turn it off and unplug it before leaving the room or going to bed.

Replace older space heaters with newer, safer models.