10 Tips For Space Heater Fire Safety

Some people like to use a space heater to save a little money on their heating bill. Heating one room instead of the whole house seems like a good idea but you must be careful. There are many house fires every year resulting from space heaters. There are also plenty of people who end up with burn injuries while coming in contact with the hot surfaces. Here are some safety tips for using space heaters.

1. Be sure to read the instruction manual. I know nobody likes reading manuals but this is important!
2. If your heater is not new have it inspected and maintained by a qualified person. Do this yearly.
3. Keep the heater a safe distance from any flammable materials, at least 30″ or more.
4. Keep it away from anything combustible like rags, paper, or flammable liquids.
5. Don’t set your heater on top of rugs or other ignitable material.
6. Do not use a kerosene or gas heater into a closed place.
7. Make sure you have proper ventilation.
8. When using a gas heater make sure it has a pilot safety valve. If you ever smell gas, do not light the pilot light. Do not touch electrical switches, or do anything that could spark and ignite gas. Open the doors and windows and leave.
9. Use a newer heater that has an ODS (oxygen depletion sensor) that will detect reduced levels of oxygen and shut off the heater.
10. Make sure you have a carbon monoxide detector.

Save money on your utility bill but make sure you stay safe. We service the South Oklahoma City, Oklahoma for all your homeowner’s insurance needs.