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Caution Urged When Using Space Heaters
Falling temperatures and rising heating costs have many looking at ways to lower
home-heating bills. Safe Electricity urges extreme caution for those planning
to use electric space heaters to help warm homes this winter.
Approximately one-third of all house fires nationwide occur during the cold
home-heating season of December, January and February. According to the National
Fire Protection
Association (NFPA), the major cause of these winter fires can be attributed
to faulty and improper use and maintenance of supplemental heating equipment,
such
as space heaters.
“
Portable heaters can help take the chill from areas of your home, but are very
dangerous if used improperly,” says Molly Hall, Safe Electricity Director. “Stay
warm and safe, and give space heaters space - at least 3 feet from anything
that can burn, including little fingers!”
Some cities have banned the use of many types of portable space heaters.
Before purchasing or using any type of space heater, check with your local
fire department
to find out if it is legal in your community.
Safe Electricity offers the following precautions when using electric space
heaters:
•
Purchase only space heaters that have been safety tested and UL approved. Make
sure the unit is equipped with an emergency tip-over shut-off feature and heating
element guards. Read and follow all of the manufacturer’s instructions
for operation and care.
• Before use, 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.
• Remember to keep space heaters at least three feet from all 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.
• Never leave space heaters unattended. Turn off your space heater and
unplug it before leaving the room or going to bed.
“
Consider replacing older space heaters with newer, safer models,” suggests
Hall. “Additionally, look for features that enhance the safety of the
unit including an electronic thermostat which allows precise temperature control
to
avoid overheating.”
Many people also use electric blankets to keep warm during cold winter nights.
Before plugging in electric blankets, check for any damage and inspect cord
for frays, cracks or cuts. Electric blankets should not be tucked under the
mattress
and nothing should be placed on top of the blanket while it’s in use,
including comforters and bedspreads. Never dry clean an electric blanket; the
chemicals
can damage the heating insulation and increase the risk of fire. Also, pets
should never be allowed to sleep on the electric blanket.
“
In addition to these safety tips, remember that a functioning smoke alarm dramatically
increases your chances of surviving a fire,” reminds Hall.
For more electrical safety information, visit www.SafeElectricity.org.
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