Space Heater Fire Safety

12/11/2020 (Permalink)

Space Heaters cause 1/3 of the winter home fires in the US every year.

As the temperatures drop, many people turn to space heaters to supplement their heating system or sometimes rely on them entirely for warmth. Unfortunately, space heaters cause about one-third of all winter house fires and 80 percent of all winter heating fire deaths, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). The winter months of December, January and February are the leading months for home heating fires.

Portable heaters can be both efficient and economical and add direct warmth to the rooms you are using most frequently, however there are few things to keep in mind when using them.

• When shopping for a space heater make sure to buy one that fits your needs. Look for what square footage the heater is suggested for.
• Make sure to buy a heater with overheat protection.
• Look for a heater with “tip over” protection. This feature shuts the space heater off if it accidentally tips over.
• Look for a heater that has a cool touch feature, where if touched by children or pets it will not burn.
• Plug your heater directly into a wall outlet. Never use an extension cord not rated for the heater or “surge protector” outlets. These are the main causes for overheating and electrical fires.
• Avoid using space heaters in humid areas, such as bathrooms or laundry rooms.
• Avoid using space heaters unsupervised and while you’re not at home.
• Do not let children play with or within three feet of space heaters. Left toys are a common cause of fires.

Do not let your Holliday season burn out and go up in flames , educate yourself about the safety hazards that come with the improper use of space heaters will help you achieve better peace of mind as you keep your home warm, comfortable, and fire hazard-free this winter.

SERVPRO specializes in Fire and Water Cleanup and Restoration.

If you have any questions, call your SERVPRO of Mayes and Wagoner Counites, 918-486-1055. 24/7 Emergency Response.