4 Space Heater Safety Tips

As the weather cool downs, many people use space heaters to stay warm during the winter. Space heaters are popular for a reason: they’re a convenient, portable, and cost effective way to heat areas of your home. However, using a space heater increases the risk of a house fire, especially when safety precautions are not taken.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, space heaters are involved in 81% of fatal house fires caused by heating equipment. More than half of these incidents occur in the month of January!

Here are some tips to help prevent a house fire due to a space heater.

Make sure the space heater you are using is safe to begin with.

When it comes to deciding whether to buy a new space heater, there are a few key factors to consider. Firstly, if your current space heater is not functioning properly despite being well-maintained, it might be time to invest in a new one. Safety is paramount when it comes to heating devices, so if you notice any unusual smells, strange noises, or the heater is producing less heat than before, it's best to replace it.

Think about the age of your space heater. If it's an older model that doesn't have the latest safety features or energy-saving capabilities, upgrading to a newer, more efficient model could be a wise choice. Newer space heaters are often designed to be more energy-efficient, which can help you save on your utility bills in the long run.

When purchasing a new space heater:

• Consider safety features like automatic shut off, overheat protection, and tip over protection.
• Make sure the particular model is listed with a nationally recognized testing laboratory

Space heaters are meant for temporary use, not as a permanent heating fixture or appliance. The single most effective action you can take is to turn it off when leaving the room or going to bed.

Space heaters can pose a fire hazard if left unattended. With their high temperatures and exposed heating elements, they can easily ignite any flammable materials nearby. By shutting off the space heater before you exit the room, you reduce the risk of accidental fires breaking out.

Plug your heater directly into an outlet in the wall rather than using an extension cord or power bar.

Plugging a space heater into an extension cord may seem like a convenient solution, but it can actually pose serious safety risks. Space heaters draw a significant amount of power to generate heat, and using an extension cord that is not designed to handle this high wattage can lead to overheating. This overheating can result in the extension cord melting, catching fire, or even causing an electrical short circuit.

Extension cords are not typically designed for long-term use with high-powered appliances like space heaters. Continuous usage of a space heater with an extension cord can cause the cord to degrade over time, increasing the risk of electrical hazards. To ensure the safety of your home and prevent potential fire hazards, it is best to plug your space heater directly into a wall outlet to handle the power load safely and efficiently. 
Keep a minimum of 3 feet clearance from the heater to any combustible material.

Keeping a safe distance between space heaters and combustible materials is crucial for preventing fires. Space heaters generate heat to warm up a room, but if placed too close to items like curtains, bedding, furniture, or papers, they can ignite these materials. This risk increases significantly if the heater is left unattended or accidentally tipped over. By maintaining a safe distance, you reduce the likelihood of these flammable materials catching fire and causing a dangerous situation in your home.

In addition to the risk of fire, having space heaters too close to combustible items can also lead to overheating. When a space heater is surrounded by materials that restrict airflow, it may not be able to dissipate heat properly, causing the unit to overheat. This can not only damage the heater but also pose a risk of malfunction or electrical fires. To ensure the safe and efficient operation of your space heater, always follow the manufacturer's guidelines on proper placement and clearance from combustible materials.

Insure Your Home in Case of a Fire

While space heaters offer a convenient and cost-effective way to keep warm during the winter, it's crucial to prioritize safety to prevent the risk of house fires. With statistics showing that a significant percentage of fatal house fires are caused by space heaters, it's important to take certain precautions to ensure your safety and the safety of your home.

Following the tips above will significantly lower your risk of a fire due to a space heater, but still, accidents can happen. Don’t forget to insure your property with a Sandbox insurance policy!

Stay warm, stay safe!

Please note that the information in this article may not accurately reflect your insurance policy from Sandbox Mutual Insurance or another insurance company. Please refer to your policy or talk to your broker about your specific coverages.