1. Ten Prohibited Actions to Take with a Space Heater
1. Ten Prohibited Actions to Take with a Space Heater
When the temperature drops, out come the space heaters. Perhaps you've got a chilly workspace at home or feel a draft creeping through the walls and windows in your living room every night. Space heaters can provide some warmth and make you feel snug wherever you are in your house. However, these electrical appliances can be hazardous and cause burns or fires if not used properly. Here are the top things you should never do with your space heater:
Avoid Setting Space Heaters on Furniture
There are two reasons for this: furniture is flammable, and space heaters can fall over, causing a shock or burn, especially if someone trips over the cord. Keep space heaters on the floor on a non-flammable surface (not on a rug or carpet) and at least 3 feet away from all furniture. Check the instructions for your space heater, as a high-powered one may require more separation from flammable materials.
Do Not Place Them in the Bathroom
The bathroom floor can be chilly, but water and electricity do not mix. Keep your space heater out of the bathroom, a small space with a lot of splashing water.
Do Not Use Them to Warm Pipes
Space heaters and water are a poor match. If your pipes are frozen or at risk of freezing, they could burst. Insulate pipes or keep your faucets dripping to prevent freezing instead.
Never Leave Them Unattended
Even if you're just running out for the quickest of grocery store trips, you should never leave a space heater unattended. Do not leave them on when you leave home or while you're asleep in bed. Space heaters must always be under supervision so you can act quickly if a problem occurs. This is even more important if you have young children or pets in the house. Make sure space heaters are turned off by unplugging them from the outlet.
Do Not Use Them to Warm Clothing or Bedding
Electric blankets can be great in winter, but a space heater should not be used as a substitute. The heat can cause clothing, bedding, and other linens like curtains or pillows to catch fire.
Do Not Use an Extension Cord
Extension cords are generally not recommended due to tripping hazards and the risk of overheating. Check the manufacturer's instructions before using an extension cord, and make sure it is rated for a high-wattage appliance. Do not run the extension cord underneath a rug or plug it into a power strip.
Do Not Overload Your Wiring
Space heaters consume a lot of power. Do not plug more than one into the same outlet or even into the same circuit. In general, a space heater should have its own outlet. If you have old, faulty wiring, it's best to avoid using space heaters altogether.
Do Not Put Heaters in High-Traffic Areas
Use common sense here: The cord should not stretch across a room's doorway. A space heater should not be in an area where children play with toys or run through the house.
Do Not Remove the Guard
Always use a guard on space heaters to keep pets from accidentally brushing up against the heating element. Keep children at a distance in case tiny fingers could reach through the guard.
Do Not Keep Them Near Flammable Liquids
If you use a space heater in a garage or workshop, keep it far away from oil, gasoline, paint, and other flammable liquids. If any of these spill and tip over, you could quickly find yourself in a dangerous and combustible situation.
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Using a space heater safely is crucial during the cold weather. Remember, SouthernLiving advises against placing space heaters near flammable materials at home, such as furniture or curtains. Additionally, it's essential to keep your space heater away from flammable liquids like oil and gasoline, especially if you're using it in a garage or workshop.