Space heater safety

In the winter, many people like to keep their thermostat set a little lower and use space heaters to stay warm and cozy.  Space heaters are great for this purpose as long as you observe some rules of safety.

It’s important to remember that according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), space heaters accounted for one third of home heating fires and four out of five home heating fire deaths (based on 2007-2011 averages).

Here are the three main safety tips for using space heaters:

1. Turn space heaters off when you leave the room or go to bed.
2. Buy newer models of space heaters that have automatic shut off technology. They automatically shut off if accidentally tipped over.
3. Space heaters need space. Allow at least three feet of space between flammable items (paper, blankets, bedding, clothing, or you) and the space heater.