Top Tips for Space Heater Safety

Posted on January 12th, 2016 by Jupiter Tequesta

You won’t find many homeowners in our area blasting the heat to stay warm, but every once in a while the temperature dips low enough to warrant using a space heater. Before you plug yours in, know this: heating equipment is the second most common cause of house fires in the U.S.

To keep you and your family safe this winter, follow these tips from the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI):

Only buy space heaters that are listed by a trustworthy testing laboratory (check the label)
Before use, read through the manufacturer’s instructions, and pay close attention to all warning labels
Inspect your space heater for cracks, broken plugs and loose connections
If you notice any frays or damage, don’t use the space heater
Do not leave your space heater unattended
Turn off your space heater if you’re leaving the room or going to bed
Never use a space heater for warming your bed, cooking food, drying clothes or thawing pipes
Make sure a smoke alarm is installed on every floor of your house, and be sure to test them monthly
Keep space heaters at least three feet away from flammable materials
Avoid placing space heaters in high-traffic areas
Do not plug your space heater into an extension cord or power strip
Position your space heater on a level, flat surface
Never put a space heater on a piece of furniture or carpet
Unplug your space heater and store somewhere safe when not in use

Adhering to these tips will help prevent tragedy this winter. If you require assistance from an electrical professional in Palm Beach, Martin and St. Lucie counties, contact Jupiter-Tequesta Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electric today.

Tequesta: (561) 747-5740
Palm Beach: (561) 626-6822
Martin: (772) 546-2822
St. Lucie: (772) 546-2822

For more tips on everything from home cooling to do-it-yourself plumbing, find us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube today.

Tags: Electrician Jupiter FL, electrician palm beach gardens, electrician tequesta fl, Electrician West Palm Beach
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