Space Heaters Need Space

11/30/2020 (Permalink)

The heater should have at least 3-foot breathing space on all sides. It should also be on stable ground.

We have made it to December in 2020! With Christmas season upon us---we all want that warm, cozy feeling in our homes. With some NE Ohio homes feeling a little drafty from the cold, outside air, you may want to utilize a space heater in your home. SERVPRO of Southern Trumbull County wants you to stay safe this winter with some space heater tips.

CPSC estimates “that portable electric heaters are involved in about 1,100 fires per year, resulting in about 50 deaths, dozens of injuries and millions of dollars in property loss. According to the National Fire Protection Association, 32 percent of the home heating fires involve space heaters, resulting in about 80 percent of home heating fire deaths in the United States.”

These are some hefty numbers! Therefore, there are a few tips you should know before purchasing a space heater. First, make sure your smoke alarms are up and working on every floor of your home. Secondly, only purchase a space heater with a seal of a nationally recognized testing laboratory. This seal ensures that the heater will not ignite tissue if it happens to get tipped over.

When using a space heater in your home, the most important thing to remember is to keep it away from anything flammable. The heater should have at least 3-foot breathing space on all sides. It should also be on stable ground. Never use a surface where the heater can be easily knocked over. Heaters should also never be left on while you are sleeping or not in the room. Make sure when using the heater, it is plugged directly into the wall and never use an extension cord or a power strip. Lastly, make sure when the heater is turned on that all the doors to the room are open to reduce exposure to indoor pollutants, such as carbon monoxide.

SERVPRO of Southern Trumbull County has seen its share of fire damage and the devastation space heaters can cause. Always use the heater accordingly. Should you need SERVPRO’s professionals when it comes to fire, smoke or water damage---we are only a phone call away. Call 330.392.6355 for the fastest response and alleviate any more damage from occurring to your home or business.  Our trained technicians have specialized equipment and resources for any size job, large or small. Our team is prepared with the necessary equipment and know-how in case of a fire emergency in the Niles, Cortland, Girard area. Call us today. Visit our Facebook for more fire tips.