3 Tips to Prevent a Space Heater Fire

6/5/2022 (Permalink)

Minimize The Risk Of a Fire With Your Space Heater

Space heaters can be a simple and cost-effective way to heat a drafty room, but they can also be potentially dangerous. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, space heaters cause approximately 25,000 house fires each year. A burned space heater can cause serious damage to your home, leaving you to deal with structural repairs and smoke cleanup. These tips can help you minimize the risk of starting a fire with your space heater.

1. Select a Safe Model
Not all space heaters are created equal, and some are safer than others. Don't use a space heater that is more than 10 years old, has a damaged cord, or shows significant signs of wear. Newer models tend to come equipped with more safety features. A few to look for include:

A safety sensor that automatically turns the heater off if it overheats or gets knocked over.
Certification from an independent safety testing group, such as UL, CSA International, or Intertek.
A power cord that is at least six feet long --- using a power strip or extension cord exponentially increases your risk of a burned space heater.

2. Choose a Location Wisely
Where you place your heater is just as important as which heater model you use. Always place your heater on a hard, level floor, never on a table or counter. Do not place a heater within 3 feet of combustible items such as drapes, furniture, blankets, fluffy or shaggy rugs, gas, paint, or matches. Choose a low-traffic location where pets and children will not be likely to go near the heater.

3. Use Your Heater Correctly
Never leave a running space heater unattended overnight or if you are away from home. Always unplug the heater when you're not using it. When unplugging your heater, grasp the plug (not the cord) and pull it straight out. Never unplug by tugging the cord or pulling at an angle. Doing so could damage the cord, increasing the risk of a short.
Don't let a burned space heater damage your Gilcrest, CO, home. Use caution and follow safety guidelines closely.