Warning: Is Your Space Heater A Fire Hazard? Avoid Disaster With These Safety Tips

Space heaters are a convenient and effective way to warm up a room quickly. However, it’s important to be aware of the potential fire hazards associated with these devices. By taking some simple precautions, you can help reduce the risk of a fire starting in your home.

Types of Space Heaters

There are two main types of space heaters: radiant and convective. Radiant heaters work by emitting infrared radiation, which heats objects in the room. Convective heaters work by circulating warm air around the room.

Both types of heaters can be a fire hazard if they are not used properly. However, radiant heaters are generally considered to be safer than convective heaters because they do not produce a flame.

Common Causes of Space Heater Fires

The most common causes of space heater fires include:

• Leaving the heater unattended. Never leave a space heater unattended while it is in use.
• Placing the heater too close to flammable objects. Keep space heaters at least three feet away from anything that can catch fire, such as curtains, furniture, and bedding.
• Using the heater in a room that is not properly ventilated. Space heaters can produce carbon monoxide, which is a poisonous gas. Make sure the room where you are using the heater is well-ventilated.
• Using a damaged or defective heater. Never use a space heater that is damaged or defective.
• Overloading the heater. Do not plug multiple appliances into the same outlet that the space heater is plugged into.

Preventing Space Heater Fires

There are a number of things you can do to prevent space heater fires, including:

• Choose a safe space heater. Look for a heater that is certified by a reputable safety organization, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL).
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully before using the heater.
• Place the heater in a safe location. Place the heater on a level, stable surface away from flammable objects.
• Never leave the heater unattended. Always turn off the heater and unplug it when you leave the room.
• Keep the heater clean. Clean the heater regularly to remove dust and debris.

What to Do If a Space Heater Fire Starts

If a space heater fire starts, take the following steps:

1. Turn off the heater and unplug it immediately.
2. Call 911.
3. Try to extinguish the fire with a fire extinguisher. If you have a fire extinguisher, try to extinguish the fire. However, do not put yourself at risk.
4. Evacuate the area. If you cannot extinguish the fire, evacuate the area immediately.

Key Points: Prioritize Safety with Space Heaters

Space heaters can be a safe and effective way to warm up your home, but it’s important to be aware of the potential fire hazards. By taking some simple precautions, you can help reduce the risk of a fire starting in your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the safest type of space heater?

A: Radiant heaters are generally considered to be safer than convective heaters because they do not produce a flame.

Q: Where should I place my space heater?

A: Place the heater on a level, stable surface away from flammable objects.

Q: How far away from flammable objects should I place my space heater?

A: Keep space heaters at least three feet away from anything that can catch fire, such as curtains, furniture, and bedding.

Q: Can I leave my space heater unattended?

A: Never leave a space heater unattended while it is in use.

Q: What should I do if a space heater fire starts?

A: If a space heater fire starts, turn off the heater and unplug it immediately, call 911, try to extinguish the fire with a fire extinguisher, and evacuate the area if you cannot extinguish the fire.