Space Heater Safety
As the temperature drops this time of the year and you’re looking to stay cozy, you may want to pull out the space heater. Your first rule of thumb is the 3- feet rule: Always keep a space heater at least 3 feet away from anything that can catch fire, like curtains or furniture. And never use a heater near paint, gas cans or matches.
Second, remember that a space heater may increase your electric bill, rather than reduce it. Space heaters are good for a small room but should never be used to heat more than that. Never use it to warm bedding, dry clothing or thaw pipes.
At my house, we have one that looks like a fireplace. My kids love to put their towels in front of the heater so the towels are warm when they get out of the bath or shower. They know to never put their towels on the heater, but in front, again following the 3-feet rule.
Always turn off the heater when you leave the room. Extended use of heaters can make them break down internally, and they could catch fire. Plus, you waste energy when the space heater is keeping an empty room warm.
To be on the safe side, look for a space heater that has automatic shutoff features. That way, if you forget to turn it off, it will turn off itself within a designated time. Overall, though, it’s best to unplug the heater when you are finished using it. The heater also should have a ground fault plug, to avoid the risk of shock, and a durable cord.
As an added precaution, make sure your smoke detectors are in good working order before using a space heater. To find the newest, safest space heaters, check with Consumer Reports before you buy.
Stay safe and stay cozy!
