Space heater safety: Follow these tips to avoid a fire

With temperatures dropping, many people might be opting to add additional heat to their homes via space heaters. 

But safety is key when using portable space heaters. 

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates that portable heaters, including electric space heaters, were involved in an average of 1,700 fires per year, resulting in an average of 70 deaths and 160 injuries annually from 2017 to 2019.

The majority of fires start when space heaters are too close to curtains, bedding or furniture. Heaters also get very hot so there is a danger of getting burned from touching the hot surface.

While these heaters are hot, of course, they should not burn you or create a fire hazard. Look for safety features like a smart sensor that automatically shuts off the unit if it overheats, and a tip-over switch that does the same if it’s knocked over. That can easily happen, especially if you have pets or children.

These are some more tips to help safely use portable space heaters

• Plug the unit directly into a wall.
  • Don’t use an extension cord or power strip, experts warn those accessories typically can’t handle the high currents space heaters draw.
• Keep space heaters on the floor.
• At least three feet away from curtains, clothes and furniture.

• When shopping for an electric space heater, look for a label from a recognized testing laboratory, such as UL, Underwriters Laboratory, that shows it meets voluntary U.S. safety standards.

• Never leave portable heaters on while sleeping.
• Fuel-burning portable heaters should never be refueled while in use. Turn the heater off, and allow it to cool down before refueling.

• Don’t leave portable heaters running unattended in a confined space around infants or individuals with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities because of their risk to cause hyperthermia or overheating, which can be deadly.

• Check your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms every month and make sure they are working.