3 Ways To Keep Your Space Heater From Causing a Fire

6/25/2022 (Permalink)

A space heater can be a lifesaver in the colder months, but it can also be dangerous.

Three Ways to Prevent a Fire From Starting With Your Space Heater

If you need some extra warmth in the winter, you might use space heaters in your Ft Meyers Beach, FL, home. They're small and portable and put off a great deal of heat, but they can also be dangerous. Approximately 1,700 house fires a year in the United States are caused by space heaters. Here are three ways to keep your space heater from causing a fire. 

1. Buy the Right Kind To Prevent a Burned Space Heater
A safety certification is the number one thing to look for in a space heater. Different organizations put heaters through rigorous tests to ensure they are safe for consumer use. Never buy a heater if it doesn't have a safety certification. You also want to purchase a heater with a shutoff feature. Look for one that will shut off if the device gets too hot or knocked over. The automatic shutoff feature can save you from a burned space heater and a major smoke cleanup after a fire. 

2. Place It in a Good Location
When you set your heater up, ensure it is on a solid, level surface. Never place it on anything combustible. If you only have carpet in the areas you need to place it on, purchase a few large, sturdy tiles to set the heater on. Fire mitigation specialists recommend that you leave at least three feet of open space around the heater at all times. Never place it near curtains, furniture or combustible items, such as paint cans. 

3. Never Leave It Unattended
When you leave the room, turn off the heater and unplug it. You also want to ensure that you turn the heater off each night before bed. Leaving the heater unattended for even a short time could be enough for a fire to start from a burned space heater. 
A space heater can be a lifesaver in the colder months, but it can also be dangerous. Following a few safety tips and being mindful of how you use it can keep you and your family safe and warm.