Don’t let your search for comfort become a dangerous fire
Space heaters and other portable heating devices account for more than 70 percent of all winter fire injuries and half of all property damage. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates that 25,000 residential fires every year are associated with the use of space heaters, resulting in over 300 deaths.
An estimated 6,000 people are treated at local emergency rooms for burns caused by room heaters, mostly in non-fire situations. Portable heaters in offices left on after business hours have also caused significant damage and personal injury.
When buying and installing space heaters, follow these guidelines:
- Keep heaters at least three feet from anything that can burn.
- Buy only newer model heaters with current safety features. Make sure the heater has the Underwriter’s Laboratory (UL) label.
- Select a heater that’s the proper size for the room you wish to heat. Don’t buy an oversized heater.
- Place heater on a level surface away from foot traffic and away from children and pets.
- Plug electric heaters directly into the wall outlet. If an extension cord is needed, use the shortest possible heavy-duty cord, 14-gauge or larger.
- Buy a unit with a tip-over safety switch, which automatically shuts off if the unit tips over.
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) provides a litany of safety guidance and tips to help make your space heater experiences safe.
