Electric Heater Safety
Electric Space Heater fires cause over 160 deaths per year. Property losses from electric space heater fires cost approximately $50 million annually. To help readily avoid the potential hazards of using an electric space heater, please review the basic safety guidelines below...
Installation and Maintenance
- Make sure that you have the right wiring and outlets with sufficient voltage.
- Keep combustibles at least three (3) feet away from heaters.
- Check for frayed wires, blown fuses. If you find any, replace immediately.
Safety Tips
- Never use your electric space heater near water, in a bathroom or damp basement.
- Unplug your electric space heater when not in use. Don't overload your wiring!
- Give your space heater plenty of space, behind and in front of it.
Buying Guidelines
- Buy only heaters with Underwriter Laboratories (UL) safety listing.
- Do look for a thermostat control that shuts down if the heater gets too hot and a tip-over switch that turns off the heater if it is knocked over.
- Do the grill, cover or sides ever become too hot to handle?
- Is the grill designed to keep heating elements out of reach of children's fingers or toys?