Space Heater Safety
If you’re using space heaters to stay warm this winter, it’s important to keep these safety tips in mind:
- Don’t leave your space heater on all night. The fire hazard is too great. Use extra blankets instead.
- Keep your space heater away from drapes, furniture and other flammable materials.
- If you use an extension cord, be sure it’s heavy duty and in good condition. And, make sure the cord is rated to handle the power your space heater requires. Don’t use household-type extension cords with your space heaters.
- Be certain your home wiring is designed to handle your space heater. If you have any doubts, contact a licensed electrician.
- Avoid using your space heater in the bathroom. If you must, keep it as far away as possible from the shower, tub and sink. And never touch the heater when you’re around water!
- Make sure your space heater has an automatic switch that turns off the electric current if the unit is tipped over.
- Make sure the heater has a 3-prong grounded plug and used in a 3-hole wall outlet.
For more information, check out the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission's Electric Space Heater .
