4 Tips for Space Heater Safety

2/4/2019 (Permalink)

Turn off your space heater when it's not in use

Nothing is cozier than a little extra warmth on a cold night, but the peril of a burned space heater can turn relaxation into aggravation in a hurry. Many fires in Arcadia, OK, are started every year by space heaters, and these fires could have been avoided if the owners used the heaters correctly. Here are four tips for getting extra warmth without extra worry.

Placement

Portable heaters are designed for a specific type of placement. There are several criteria to consider when choosing a surface for your heater. The surface should be:

• Non-flammable
  
• Level
  
• Stable
  
• Near an outlet

Any device that generates heat should sit on a surface that can withstand it. Place it on the floor rather than on a table so that it is less likely to be knocked over. It should also be near enough to an electrical outlet that plugging it in does not stretch the cord.

Power

The simplest way to avoid a burned space heater is to turn it off when it’s not in use. It also helps to purchase one with an automatic shut-off feature in the event that it gets turned over or accidentally covered up. Make sure the power outlet is not overloaded, and the cord is intact.

Preservation

Proper maintenance is important for safety. Your space heater should never be used when its filter is dirty. If filter lint catches fire, you are going to need smoke cleanup from fire restoration professionals. Clean or change the filter regularly.

Proximity

Your heater needs both space and attention. Keep pets and children at least three feet away from it. It should not be used near anything flammable. Only keep the space heater on while you are in the room with it.

A burned space heater can cause damage to your home and negate the relaxed atmosphere it is intended to create. By following these safety tips, you can enjoy the warmth without the stress.