March 4, 2020

Space heaters can provide extra comfort during colder weather. Following are some basic tips to help ensure their safe use:

Do’s

• Use only equipment that is made for home heating.
• Use a space heater that has been tested to the latest safety standards and has been certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory. These heaters have the most up-to-date safety features. Older space heaters may not meet newer safety standards. Always follow the manufacturer’s directions for proper use.
• Place the heater on a level, hard, nonflammable surface, such as a ceramic tile floor.
• Keep the heater at least three feet away from bedding, drapes, furniture and other flammable materials.
• Keep children and pets away from space heaters.
• Turn the heater off if you leave the area.

Don’ts

• Never leave a space heater on when you go to sleep.
• Don’t place a space heater close to any sleeping person.
• Never use gasoline in a kerosene space heater because even small amounts mixed with kerosene can increase the risk of fire.
• Don’t use portable propane space heaters indoors or in any confined space unless they are specifically designed for indoor use.
• Never use your oven, grill or clothes dryer to heat your home. It could cause a fire or dangerous carbon monoxide gas.​