The Electrical Safety Foundation International says the risk of fire from space heaters is three to four times higher than from central heating equipment. In fact, ESFI says heating equipment is the second-leading cause of home fires. Of those heating-related home fires, space heaters are responsible for 32 percent of cases. Sadly, they also cause 82 percent of home heating fire deaths.
Many space heater fires are caused when combustible materials, like fabric, paper or furniture, come in contact with these heating units. Even the rugs and carpets upon which space heaters sit can be ignited. Fires also may be caused by misuse by the operator or even worn out or faulty components.
To reduce your risk of fire from space heaters, follow these safety tips:
- Only buy a space heater that has been tested and labeled by a nationally recognized testing company, such as Underwriter’s Laboratories (UL). Read the manufacturer’s instruction manual prior to use.
- Keep the heater three feet away from drapes, bedding, clothing, paper, furniture or other flammable materials. Place it on a flat, level surface with ample airflow and away from areas where it might be knocked over. Never place heaters on cabinets, tables or furniture, and never suspend them from rafters or ceilings.
- Never leave a space heater unattended. Turn the unit off when you go to sleep or leave the room. In addition, never leave children or pets unsupervised when a space heater is in use.
- Keep electric heaters away from water. Never use them near a sink or in the bathroom.
- Remember, space heaters are only meant to supply supplemental heat, not replace your home heating system. Never misuse them to warm bedding, cook food, dry clothing or thaw pipes. Avoid continuously operating them over extended periods of time.
Source: Electrical Safety Foundation International. “Space Heater Safety Tips.” Retrieved Dec. 9, 2011, from http://www.esfi.org/index.cfm/cd/FAP/cdid/11242/pid/10272.
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