Space Heater Safety Tips

As winter temperatures fall, families across the country turn to extra heating sources to stay warm. While space heaters can provide comfort during cold months, they also pose a serious fire risk if not used properly. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), heating equipment is the second leading cause of home fires in the U.S., surpassed only by cooking, with nearly half of all home fires occurring during winter.

Between 2012 and 2016, heating equipment was involved in an average of 52,000 home fires each year. These fires lead to approximately 490 civilian deaths, 1,400 injuries, and $1 billion in property damage annually. Space heaters were responsible for 40% of these home fires, making them the most common heating device involved in home fire incidents. Something even more concerning, space heater fires accounted for the majority of deaths and injuries related to heating fires. While not often thought about, these statistics show just how dangerous improper use of space heaters can be.

Because space heaters draw significant electrical power and generate intense heat, they must be handled with extreme care. Understanding and following basic safety practices can greatly reduce the risk of fire and injury.

Space heater safety tips to protect you and your loved ones

• Choose only certified heaters. When buying a space heater, look for models tested and approved by a nationally recognized testing laboratory. These units meet established safety standards and include essential operating instructions.
• Use heaters with protective guards. A protective grill or shield helps prevent accidental contact with hot elements. Oil- or water-filled heaters generally stay cooler on the surface and may not require guards.
• Read the manufacturer’s instructions. Always follow the heater’s operating and maintenance guidelines before use.
• Inspect cords and outlets regularly. Never use a heater with damaged cords, plugs, or outlets. Also avoid running cords under rugs or carpets, as this can cause overheating and fire.
• Plug heaters directly into wall outlets. Do not use extension cords or power strips, as heaters are considered a ‘big appliance’. Avoid sharing the outlet with other devices to prevent overheating.
• If an extension cord is unavoidable, use the right one. Only use heavy-duty cords rated #14 gauge or larger (#12 gauge is even better), and use grounded cords when required.
• Check for heat buildup. If the cord, plug, or outlet feels hot, unplug the heater immediately and have it inspected.
• Never leave heaters unattended. Always turn them off and unplug them when leaving the room or going to sleep. Space heaters are designed for temporary, supervised use only.
• Maintain safe distances. Keep heaters at least three feet away from flammable items such as furniture, curtains, bedding, paper, or trash.
• Never use heaters improperly. Do not dry clothes on them or use them to thaw frozen pipes.
• Place heaters on stable surfaces. Set them on flat, secure ground where they won’t tip over.
• Avoid high-moisture areas. Never operate heaters in bathrooms or kitchens, and never touch them with wet hands.
• Protect children and pets. Always supervise them around heaters and place heaters where they can’t be bumped, adjusted, or knocked over.
• Keep heaters in good condition. Replace missing guards or controls and never operate a faulty unit.
• No matter what type of heating systems you use, ensure all floors in your house have working smoke detectors, just in case.

Should the worst happen, our fire damage experts are always here for you. Our team is trained, certified, efficient, and compassionate. They bring a dedication to each client and building they recover.

For Smoke Cleanup & Fire Damage Restoration, contact our PuroClean office at  +1 336-776-3630!