As the
temperature drops, many families may use portable electric space heaters to
help warm their homes. The Electrical Safety Foundation International warns
that space heaters could cause fires and injuries if not used properly. Follow
these few simple precautions.
Read the manufacturer's
instruction manual before using any space heater. Check to make sure the
heater bears the mark of a certified testing organization.
Keep space heaters at least 3
ft. away from any combustible materials such as bedding, clothing,
draperies, furniture and rugs.
Keep space heaters away from
areas with water. Check your manual to be sure the heater is intended to
be used in locations such as bathrooms.
Don't use space heaters in rooms
where children are unsupervised. Children may sitck their fingers or other
objects through the protective guards, causing burns or chock.
Avoid using an extension cord
with a space heater. If you must use one, make sure it is the right wire
gauge size and type of the heater.
Portable heaters have hot parts
that can cause sparking. Do not use them in areas where flammable liquids
such as gasoline or kerosene are used or stores.
Space heaters are meant to
supply supplemental heat. Do not use them to warm bedding, cook food, dry
clothing or thaw pipes.
Do not use space heaters with
extension cords; plug directly into an outlet on a relatively unburdened
circuit.
Turn off the space heater and
unplug it when not in use.
