While electric space heaters offer users a convenient source of supplemental heat, they can pose significant fire and electric shock risks. In fact, according to the Electrical Safety Foundation International, heating equipment is the second leading cause of home fires in the United States, nearly 32% of all which are caused from portable electric space heaters.
With temperatures continuing to plummet throughout the country, the ESIF offers these tips to keep you safe when using space heaters:
- Read the manufacturer’s instructions. Before using any space heater read all instructions and warning labels carefully
- Check for damage. Always check heaters for cracked or broken plugs, loose connections and worn or damaged cords before use.
- Never leave a space heater unattended. Always unplug and store when the heater is not in use. Remember to turn it off when you leave the room and keep small children and animals from playing to closely to a space heater.
- Proper placement of space heaters is critical. Heaters must be kept at least three feet away from anything that can burn. They should also be located away from high traffic areas and placed on level, flat surfaces.
- Plug space heaters directly into a wall outlet. Do not use an extension cord or power strip, which could overheat and result in a fire. Do not plug any other electrical devices into the same outlet as the heater.
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