Portable electric heaters, while seemingly harmless, are responsible
for many fires annually. These heaters are not substitutes for central heating.
Nor are they designed for extended use.
All
types must be kept at least 36 inches from anything that can burn, including
furniture, bedding, clothing, pets and people.
Space
heaters must not be left operating when you are not in the room, or when you
go to sleep.
Children
should be supervised at all times when space heaters are in
use.
Make
sure the heater has an element guard that prevents little fingers from
straying onto hot coils.
Do
not put drying clothing or combustibles over heaters.
Be
certain your home wiring is designed to handle your space heater. If you have
any doubts, contact a licensed electrician.
Make
sure the heater has a 3-prong grounded plug and used in a 3-hole wall outlet.
Check
for fraying or splitting wires, or overheating. Have problems repaired by a
professional before operating the space heater.
Make
sure your space heater has an automatic switch that turns off the electric
current if the unit is tipped over.
Portable electric heaters, while seemingly harmless, are responsible
for many fires annually. These heaters are not substitutes for central heating.
Nor are they designed for extended use.