More than 50,000 fires occur nationwide each year as a result of space heaters. You can maintain a safe environment when using portable electric space heaters by doing the following:
- Space heaters need space!
- Keep at least 36 inches of empty space between the heater and everything else, like furniture, curtains, papers and people.
- Check the cord on any portable electric heater. If the cord gets hot, or is frayed or cracked, have the heater serviced.
- Never use an extension cord with portable electric heaters.
- Turn off portable heaters when ever you leave the house or are sleeping.
- An adult should always be present when a space heater is used around children.
- Space heaters are for temporary warmth, they should not be left on for long periods of time.
- NEVER use space heaters to dry clothing.
- Do not use space heaters in bathrooms or in wet areas.
- Make sure your portable electric heater is UL approved and has a temperature control and tip-over shut off protection.
The use of portable electric space heaters should always be a last resort. If your workspace is too cold, your first action should always be to report the problem to the Facilities Services Center at x4-2222 so we can repair or adjust our systems.