In November of 2010 there were 5 reported house fires, it is said that each one was caused by misuse of space heaters. If you use a space heater this fall and winter, here are some easy do’s and don’ts to follow.
Do’s:
- Use a space heater that has been tested to the latest safety standards and has been certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory. Older models may not meet these safety standards and it would wise to invest in a newer, safer model.
- The unit must have thermostatic controls and automatic shutoff features.
- You also need your building’s manager for approval prior to purchasing and using space heaters.
- Keep the space heater accessible – do not storage anything within three feet of the unit. The leading cause of space heater fires was combustibles too close to the heater.
- Place the heater on a level, hard, nonflammable surface – not on rugs or carpet or near bedding or drapes. It is best to keep heaters three-feet away flammable materials.
- Be sure to keep children and pets away from space heaters.
- The space heater must be plugged directly into an outlet. Do not use a light-duty extension cord or a multi outlet strip/surge protector; it can start a fire with a high-wattage appliance. The unit must be grounded with a three-pronged plug.
- You also need to run the power cord so that no one steps on or trips over it.
- Turn heaters off if you leave the area and unplug heaters when you leave for the day.
Don’ts:
- Never leave a space heater on when you go to sleep, and do not place heaters close to any other sleeping persons.
- Never use gasoline in a kerosene space heater, as even small amounts of gasoline mixed with kerosene can increase the risk of fire.
- Do not use portable propane space heaters indoors or in any confined space unless they are specifically designed for indoor use.
Remember: Place smoke alarms on every level of your home, outside of sleeping areas and inside each bedroom. Guard against carbon monoxide (CO) poisonings as well by installing carbon monoxide alarms in your home. Make sure that your batteries in all alarms are fresh and working. Don’t forget to call us today for a Free Quote for your fire insurance!
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