The use of space heaters increases as the weather cools down for the cooler months, necessitating a review of space heater safety. These appliances, while very useful for heating rooms and small areas, can also be dangerous if used incorrectly. The majority of heating-related fire deaths are associated with stationary or portable space heaters.
Here are 10 safety guidelines to remember when you warm up your space with a space heater, whether you already own one or plan to get one.
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1. Look for approved space heaters.
You should always look for space heaters that have received Australian safety certification. Since these products have been approved for use in homes, you can have peace of mind.
2. Buy a space heater with an automatic shut off.
Automatic shutoff is excellent for both convenience and safety. Some space heaters will shut off if they get too hot, lowering the risk of a fire. Some heaters will also automatically switch off if they are tipped over by a child, a pet, or an adult. Try to position the heater so that it can’t be readily turned around as an extra measure of protection.
3. Place your space heater on a level surface.
The floor is a level, smooth surface that is ideal for placing a space heater since it reduces the likelihood that it may tip over and ignite something combustible. Avoid setting your space heater on a rug, a desk edge, or a table covered with cloth. Instead of placing the heater in a potentially dangerous area, walk closer to it if you want to warm up rapidly.
4. Keep the heater 3+ feet away from flammable objects.
Beds, curtains, furniture, documents, and other flammable items should be kept at least 3 feet away from your space heater. To prevent them from heating up and starting a fire, this includes keeping flammable materials this far away from the front, back, and sides of the house. According to the NFPA, “upholstered furniture, clothing, mattresses, or bedding” was the main cause of fatal home fires.
If worse comes to worst, make sure that you have a fire extinguisher in your home.
5. Never leave the space heater unattended.
A lot of these fires resulting from space heaters share a same motif, “Things were neglected,” reported CBS News. Avoid leaving your space heater unattended in the same manner that you wouldn’t leave food cooking in the kitchen. Even the slightest changes can occasionally go unnoticed until it’s too late. Make an effort to be present while the heater is on.
6. Plug the heater into the wall—not a power strip.
Never connect a space heater to a power strip since they aren’t made to handle the amount of power required. The power strip could overheat and catch fire if you plug the heater into it. Wall outlets are more suited for your heater because they can tolerate a higher voltage than power strips.
7. Keep exits and doorways clear.
Place your heater in areas that are blocking an exit or doorway to guarantee that there is a path of escape in the event of an emergency. If you need to heat that space, consider using a wall outlet within the room rather than installing the space heater there.
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8. Turn your space heater off before going the bed
It’s simple to forget to turn off your space heater before going to sleep once you’ve warmed up. Before retiring to bed, try to keep in mind to turn off your heater, and be prepared with a blanket to help trap your body heat. As alternatives for hands-free timing and shutoff, consider an automatic timer or a smart space heater.
9. Never place your heater near liquid.
A space heater shouldn’t be placed close to water or a source of water, such as a sink, shower, or bathtub. This lowers the chance of receiving an electric shock. If your space heater is on a desk, be careful not to place any mugs, cups, or bowls there to prevent spills.
10. Make sure you have smoke detectors installed in your home.
Ensure that you install smoke detectors outside of each room in your house and are in good working order. The NFPA advises pressing the test button on your smoke alarms once a month and making sure everyone knows how to react. Make a family fire escape plan and practice it so that everyone will be ready in case of emergency.
The conclusion
Space heaters can be used to safely heat portions of your home because they are not intrinsically harmful. Use our 10 suggestions as a guide if you’re thinking about getting one or intend to use one you already have.