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Winter Safety Tips for Electric Heaters
With below-freezing temperatures the last few weeks here in Georgia, there are many of us that have been doing our best to keep warm this January. While many Georgia homeowners might make use of their heating system or fireplace, sometimes it's just not enough, which is why many people turn to the use of electrical heaters or electric heating devices this time of year!
While we can all be thankful for living in the 21st century and for being able to enjoy these devices, it's extremely important to pay attention to the dangers of these electrical heaters to avoid a wintertime catastrophe.
Reducing Hazards When Using Space Heaters
The United States' Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates that portable electric heaters were involved in around 1,200 fires per year. The biggest potential threat that space heaters prose to our homes is their ability to ignite nearby objects and materials. This includes things such as blankets, bedding, paper, cardboard, clothing and even flammable or combustible liquids.
To best avoid the event of disaster when using space heaters this winter, you should check that your heater is not only properly working, but properly stored and used as well. Here're a few safety tips to check on when using space heaters:
To best avoid the event of disaster when using space heaters this winter, you should check that your heater is not only properly working, but properly stored and used as well. Here're a few safety tips to check on when using space heaters:
- Never operate a broken or damage space heater.
- Never operate a space heater while sleeping.
- Keep flammable materials at least three feet away.
- Never use a surge protector when plugging in a space heater.
- Do not run the heater's cord underneath carpeting or other materials.
- Always keep space heaters away from water.
- Ensure that your heater's plug fits snuggly into the wall outlet.
What To Look For
If you have a space heater that you've been using in your home for quite some time, you'll want to check it over before each use. Make sure that the cord has a stable connection to the device and the wall, and that the cord is not damaged. If at any time during use the wall outlet or cord becomes hot, this is a sign that either the heater has become faulty, or that your outlet is damaged.
When shopping for an electric heater, look for a device that has an automatic shutoff feature in the event that the heater is knocked over. Typically this means that your heater, if knocked over or stored in an unintended position, would make a loud buzzing noise and automatically turn off to prevent a fire.Personal Heating Devices
Another type of electrical heating device that is growing in popularity are portable heaters or wearable heating devices. These portable devices sometimes look like the traditional disposable hand warmer pouches, but are rechargeable and can be fit into one's pocket. The same technology has also been incorporated into wearable vests, gloves or socks that are rechargeable. These types of devices are often used by people who may have to work or spend extended periods of time outside in cold weather.
One of the most important things to pay attention to when using these devices is avoiding burning yourself. Always remove or shut off the device if you feel like you are too hot, and check the manufacturer's instructions when operating.
Your Local Electric & Security Experts
This time of year is not only challenging when it comes to staying warm, but also when it comes to staying safe. If you are curious about the safety of your home's heating system or have any other electrical issues this winter, contact H&H Electric to have one of our expert technicians inspect your home.
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