Use Space Heaters Wisely

The following tips from the Electrical Safety Foundation International will help you get the best and safest results from your portable electric space heater.

• Read the manufacturer’s warning labels and manuals and follow them closely before using a space heater.
• Keep flammable materials—including bedding, clothing, draperies, rugs and furniture— at least three feet away from the heater.
• Don’t use space heaters around unsupervised children and pets.
• Don’t poke fingers or objects through the heater’s protective guards. The slightest contact with a heating element can cause a severe burn, shock, or fire.
• Turn off your space heater and unplug it when leaving the room.
• Don’t use extension cords with space heaters.
• Electric space heaters use a lot of electricity. To avoid a circuit overload, plug it into a circuit that is not already burdened by other appliances and fixtures.
• Keep the power cord away from high-traffic areas to prevent a tripping hazard, but do not run the cord under a carpet, rug or furniture. The cord could overheat and cause a fire.
• Water and electricity don’t mix! Use only those space heaters marked as approved for such locations as bathrooms. If this information is missing, don’t use the heater in that area.