Below are some simple precautions you should take when using space heaters, to help keep you both warm and safe:
- Keep space heaters at least three feet from furniture, walls, curtains, bedding, and all other flammable items.
- Never use extension cords with space heaters.
- Inspect space heaters before use. Discontinue use if the space heater has fraying insulation, broken wires, or shows any sign of overheating.
- Never use space heaters for drying clothes, warming bedding, heating food, thawing pipes, or anything other than supplemental heat.
- Turn off space heaters when you leave a room or go to sleep.
- Supervise children and pets whenever space heaters are in use.
- When buying space heaters look for a model with automatic shut-off features.
- If you have a liquid-fueled space heater, use only the fuel recommended by the manufacturer. Never use gasoline or other substitute fuel.
- When refueling, turn off the space heater and let it completely cool before adding fuel. Clean up any spills promptly.
- Be sure that any liquid-fueled heating device used in the home is rated for indoor use and is adequately ventilated.
