Give Heaters Some Space and Your Blankets a Break

For many in the wintertime, a simple way to save money and stay warm means turning down the furnace and plugging in space heaters and electric blankets. However, the Safe Electricity program urges consumers to use these devices with caution.

According to a National Fire Protection Association study, in 2010 space heaters accounted for 32 percent of the 57,100 reported home fires and 80 percent of deaths caused by home heating equipment.

In September of 2012, the Chicago Tribune reported the death of a 2-month old baby girl. A space heater placed too close to the bed sparked a fire in the apartment, which reportedly had nonworking smoke alarms.

Prevent tragedies such as this by using the following guidelines to operate space heaters safely:

• Many fires start when flammable products are placed too close to heating devices, such as space heaters. Space heaters should be kept at least 3 feet from blankets, clothing, paper, and other flammables.
• Place space heaters out of high-traffic areas and on a level, hard, non-flammable floor surface—NOT on carpets, furniture, or countertops.
• Look for a space heater that has guards from heating elements and automatically shuts off if it is tipped over or overheating.
• Do not attempt to warm your entire home using only space heaters. Space heaters are useful in small areas, such as a study or living room. However, if you need to keep large areas warm, your home heating system will do the job more efficiently.
• Plug space heaters directly into the outlet, and never use an extension cord.

For the safe use of electric blankets, Safe Electricity offers the following tips:

• Only use electric blankets with an automatic shut off designed to prevent the blanket from overheating.
• Pets should never be allowed to sleep on top of electric blankets.
• Electric blanket wires should never be bent or tucked under a mattress.
• Replace old or damaged electric blankets. The blanket should not have any charred or dark areas.

Check space heaters and electric blankets before use. Cords should not be frayed, brittle, or cracked. Always remember to turn off space heaters and electric blankets when not in use. Never leave one of these devices on unattended or after going to bed.

To learn more on how to avoid electrical hazards, visit SafeElectricity.org.