Fire Safety: Space Heaters

January 20, 2016 // Posted in Real Estate, Reinhart Announcements

The recent drop in temperatures has many people turning to space heaters stay warm. Space heaters are a wonderful way to increase the temperature of rooms. It is important to be cautious with space heaters because they cause 80% of all winter heating fire deaths.
When you use a space heater, follow these guidelines to stay safe:

Only purchase newer model heaters that have all of the current safety features. Make sure the heater carries the Underwriter’s Laboratory (UL) label.
Choose a thermostatically controlled heater, because they avoid the energy waste of overheating a room.
Select a heater of the proper size for the room you wish to heat. Do not purchase oversized heaters. Most heaters come with a general sizing table.
Locate the heater on a level surface away from foot traffic. Keep children and pets away from the heater.
You should always turn space heaters off when if you leave the room or go to sleep.
Keep space heaters at least three feet from anything flammable including clothing, furniture, newspapers, blankets, curtains, and you.
Electric heaters should be plugged directly into the wall outlet. If an extension cord is necessary, use the shortest possible heavy-duty cord of 14-gauge wire or larger. Always check and follow any manufacturer’s instructions pertaining to the use of extension cords.
Buy a unit with a tip-over safety switch, which automatically shuts off the heater if the unit is tipped over.

Don’t let safety features lull you into a false sense of safety. Remember space heaters cause about one-third of all winter house fires. Follow the procedures above to protect your house, belongings and family.
Source: National Fire Protection Association