| Space heaters are very convenient but also | | | | You don't want to have to keep turning it on and |
| dangerous. Fire is one of the biggest hazards with | | | | off to keep the heat constant. If the space |
| them. There are several steps you can take to | | | | heater has a thermostat, it will regulate itself to |
| make sure your heater is safe. | | | | maintain the constant temperature. An advantage |
| Fire is the biggest hazard with portable romm | | | | is overheat protection. This shuts down the |
| heaters. The Federal Consumer Product Safety | | | | device when it reaches a dangerous temperature. |
| Commission reports that there are more than | | | | If you're going to move your heater from room |
| 21,000 fires caused by space heaters each year | | | | to room, make sure you get a lightweight |
| and almost 300 people die. According to the U.S. | | | | portable room heater. It should also have an |
| Fire Administration, space heaters cause 30% of | | | | insulated handle or grip so you can carry it easily. |
| heating-related injuries and 40% of heating-related | | | | A longer cord gives you more flexibility. Use an |
| deaths. You can take steps to prevent fires and | | | | extension cord only when absolutely necessary. If |
| other accidents. | | | | you must, make sure you use 12 or 14 gauge. |
| Make sure that your space heater is UL listed. | | | | Because some electric room heaters can get |
| This is the Underwriter's Laboratories seal of | | | | very hot, keep them at least three feet from |
| approval. This means that it complies with industry | | | | drapes and other flammable objects. Do not allow |
| wide standards. Your room heater should also | | | | children to play nearby and do not try to dry |
| have a shut off device. If the heater is knocked | | | | clothes on the heater. Turn your space heater off |
| over, it should shut itself off immediately. | | | | when you leave the room for an extended period |
| You should get a model that has a thermostat. | | | | and while sleeping. |