Be Safe With Your Space Heater

Space heaters are very convenient but alsoYou don't want to have to keep turning it on and
dangerous. Fire is one of the biggest hazards withoff to keep the heat constant. If the space
them. There are several steps you can take toheater 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 rommis overheat protection. This shuts down the
heaters. The Federal Consumer Product Safetydevice when it reaches a dangerous temperature.
Commission reports that there are more thanIf you're going to move your heater from room
21,000 fires caused by space heaters each yearto 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% ofinsulated handle or grip so you can carry it easily.
heating-related injuries and 40% of heating-relatedA longer cord gives you more flexibility. Use an
deaths. You can take steps to prevent fires andextension 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 ofvery hot, keep them at least three feet from
approval. This means that it complies with industrydrapes and other flammable objects. Do not allow
wide standards. Your room heater should alsochildren to play nearby and do not try to dry
have a shut off device. If the heater is knockedclothes 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.