How to Prevent Fires Caused by Space Heaters
With the rising cost of home heating fuel, many people are turning to supplemental heating sources throughout the winter months to help keep their homes warm and the fuel bills down. If used safely, space heaters, whether portable electric or combustion heaters, can provide a beneficial source of heat. However, if not used properly, heaters can put a family at risk for fire and burn injuries. The key is to know the hazards and to purchase space heaters with safety options. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Check with your local fire department to find out what types of heaters are legal in your community. Local codes can vary. In some states, the use of kerosene heaters indoors is illegal.
-
2
Select a heater which has the UL mark. This means that the product has been tested and met approved safety standards. Carefully read and follow the manufacturer's operating instructions. Be sure to choose the right size heater for the area you want to heat. Multiply the area (number of square feet times the height of the ceiling) of the space you want to heat by the number 2, 3 or 4 to estimate the number of BTUs needed. Multiply by 2 if the room is insulated well and by the number 4 if it is not insulated, or is poorly insulated. Use the number 3 if the quality of insulation in the room falls somewhere in between.
-
-
3
Look for heaters that automatically shut off. Heaters equipped with a tip-over switch will not turn back on again until the heater is turned upright. Consider investing in a heater that has a proximity sensor that turns off the heater if objects, people or pets are too near. Some models also have an indicator light to signal that the heater is on.
-
4
Use only the grade fuel recommended by the manufacturer when using kerosene or indoor liquid propane heaters. Likewise, do not substitute with any other kind of fuel. Portable propane heaters burn cleaner and more efficiently than kerosene. They are also a practical option for heating a well-ventilated garage.
-
5
Allow the heater to cool completely before refueling. Use extreme caution when using any type of combustion heater. Always refill kerosene heaters outside, and immediately clean up any spills. Adequate ventilation is required indoors to prevent the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Install at least one carbon monoxide alarm in your home, preferably near the area where you sleep.
-
6
Move cords away from high traffic areas to avoid falls or tipping over the heater. Do not use extension cords with electric space heaters. The heater should be plugged directly into a wall receptacle.
-
7
Keep any flammable fabrics or objects at least three feet away from the heater. This includes bedding, curtains, and furniture.
-
8
Supervise children and pets when space heaters are in use. Teach children to stay away from heaters. Do not allow youngsters to adjust the controls, as some space heaters get very hot.
-
9
Turn off the heater whenever you leave the room, go to bed for the night or leave the house. Always unplug electric space heaters when not in use. Keep heaters in good operating condition. Never use your oven or range to heat rooms.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Install at least one smoke alarm on every level of your home, including the attic and basement. Smoke alarms should be installed near sleeping areas or inside each bedroom.
The federal Consumer Product Commission (CPSC) estimates that more than 21,000 fires each year are caused by space heaters.
