Space Heater Fire Hazards Are More Likely To Occur In The Colder Months

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

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With the winter season well upon us, all anyone can think of doing is curling up in front of their space heater, all snug and cozy. After all, who doesn’t like unwinding after a long, cold day with a mug of their favorite cocoa, a festive movie, and the warmth of a heater? But space heaters can do as much damage as they do good, and it’s essential to take precautions to prevent any space heater fire hazards from occurring. 

Is Your Space Heater a Fire Hazard?

Remember when someone asked you who your best friend was? Well, for these next couple of months, that’s your space heater. But believe it or not, your space heater can turn out to be quite the fire hazard. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), from 2008 to 2010, portable electric heaters were the cause of roughly 1,200 fires per year.  

With most heaters containing a 1500 watts voltage, this is more than enough power to cause a spark should any of the appliance's components prove faulty. So, it’s best to look out for a damaged wire, cord, or plug. Additionally, if you’re using an extension cord, then it is essential to check that too; fires are often caused by extensions instead of the heater itself. 

Of course, even a correctly functioning space heater can be prone to combustion, and the most common cause of this is its surroundings. Space heaters should be kept at a safe distance from all items, roughly a distance of about three feet, but people often forgo this advice and huddle up close to get maximum heat. This seemingly harmless act could prove fatal if any of the nearby materials were to catch fire. 

Are All Space Heater the Same?

Although there’s no doubt that a space heater can turn out to be dangerous, that doesn’t mean that it is an appliance not suited to your home. It is one of the best sources of indoor heat to help you get through the harsh winters. All you need to do is use it safely, and you’ll be all set. 

The best type of space heater to go for are electric space heaters as these have proven to be the safest, with the following 4 types of space heaters to keep clear of:

1) Fan Heaters

2) Ceramic Heaters

3) Oil Heaters

4) Convection Heaters 

Still, if you choose to use one of the above types – as they are usually cheaper – Please keep a close watch.

How Do I Make My Space Heater Safer?

Of course, everyone can’t get an electric space heater, and so, there are a few steps that you can take to make your space heater safer – whatever type it may be.

 Space heater precautions to consider:

• Steer clear of extensions wherever possible
• Do not leave your space heater without supervision or running overnight
• Stick to your heater’s operation manual
• Turn off your heater at the first signs of a spark or overheating
• Give your space heater adequate rest, ideally after every few hours
• Keep your space heater well away from any liquids
• Place the space heater on a straight surface 
• Place all materials and items at a distance of at least three feet
• Make sure your space heater is UL certified 

Just follow these simple guidelines, and the chances of a space heater fire hazard will fall drastically. 

One of the smartest things you can do is install heat and smoke sensors at various points throughout your home, taking special care to place them in rooms where your space heater is used. These alarms are excellent at detecting the smallest signs of a space heater fire hazard, as their reaction time is just a couple of minutes. Just make sure your alarm has a loud enough sound, so you’ll be able to notice it even if you’re immersed elsewhere.

Final Thoughts 

So, is it likely that your space heater starts a fire? Is a space heater’s risk of fire far too significant? Not at all! As long as you stick by the precautionary methods and keep safe, your space heater is an excellent addition for the winter months.

Remember to call SERVPRO of Union, Towns, Fannin & Gilmer Counties when a space heater fire breaks out in your home or business. SERVPRO are fire damage restoration professionals on call 24/7 and will be there to help you every step of the restoration process.