The Importance of Space Heater Safety

12/29/2021 (Permalink)

Know the basics of space heater safety before using one!

Despite the weeks of mild temperatures that set records around Christmas, it is still winter, and weather systems can turn cold quickly.  Before you turn on that space heater, there are some things that you should know. 

Space heaters are convenient, but they can also be dangerous.  There are some basic safety guidelines to follow when purchasing a new space heater.  These also apply before using an older model.

Accidents happen.  Should your space heater fall over, a fire could quickly start.  Make sure your space heater is the kind that automatically shuts off after a fall.  It's better to be safe than sorry, so if you are unsure if your older space heater has this capability, replace it with an upgraded model.

It is never safe to plug a space heater into a power strip.  They are not equipped to handle that type of power load.  A space heater's heating element can easily reach between 500 and 600 degrees, which could overheat and melt a power strip, possibly resulting in a fire.  A space heater needs to be plugged directly into a wall outlet, and it also needs to be the only device using the outlet.  It's important to check the plug periodically to ensure it has not overheated and started to deform or melt.  This is a fire hazard and the heater should be immediately discarded.

Lastly, location is key for the safe use of space heaters.   Place it on the floor and leave three feet of space between the heater and flammable items like furniture or textiles.  While in use, your space heater should never be left unattended.  Make sure children and pets are also kept away.  There have been too many tragic stories about house fire fatalities that occur after an unsupervised child turns on a space heater.   Break the cycle and use your space heater responsibly.

Space heaters are handy when the weather dips, but remember to make safety a priority and use them correctly to prevent one of the most common causes for winter house fires!