3 Space Heater Safety Tips

6/7/2022 (Permalink)

Safety tips for space heaters.

Three Safety Tips for Space Heaters

Certain rooms in your Rayford, TX, home may be difficult to heat because of their size or lack of heating vents and ductwork in the area. Space heaters may solve this issue; however, misuse of these units causes hundreds of fires every year, so before you decide to use them in your home, learning how to avoid blazes caused by burned space heaters can help reduce the risk of property damage. 

1. Use Newer Models 
Some newer space heater models have an auto-shutoff feature that ensures the unit turns itself off if you or one of your family members forgets. Replacing older models or those with limited safety features can prevent fires, so shopping around for newer units before the cold weather comes can help you feel more confident when it comes to your family's safety. 

2. Leave Space Around the Heater 
Space heater fires sometimes occur because there is not enough space around the unit, causing it to overheat and catch the clutter around it on fire. Once a burned space heater catches fire, the resulting blaze can spread quickly. Leave at least a foot of space on all sides of a heater and do not operate it pushed into a corner or up against a wall, even if it has an auto-shutoff feature. 

3. Avoid Using a Damaged or Burned Space Heater
Before using a stored space heater for the first time, check it over for problems such as a frayed electrical cord or signs of scorching on the metal heating components. You can also ask a smoke cleanup and fire restoration company to help you decide whether your home's space heaters are safe or if you need to replace them. 
Heating your Rayford, TX, home with the help of space heaters is an inexpensive way to provide bedrooms and other rooms with supplemental heat. Keeping the above safety tips in mind can help you operate these units safely and reduce the risk of a costly house fire.