House fire a painful reminder of space heater dangers

Most people in Cullman County have, by now, heard news of the house fire this past weekend in which four area residents died.

Reports have come out saying that officials believe the blaze was started by a space heater in a bedroom that was too close to a bed.


Use Your Space Heater Safely

Many people turn to space heaters—both electric models and those powered by kerosene or even wood— as a convenient source of warmth in winter months. However, space heaters can be dangerous if not used properly.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) estimates that more than 25,000 residential fires every year are associated with space heaters. More than 300 people die in these fires. In addition, an estimated 6,000 people annually receive hospital emergency care for burn injuries connected with space heaters.

Space heater hazards stem not just from fires caused by contact with or close proximity to heating elements. They also include fires started by flammable fuels used in the heaters; defective wiring in the appliance; and carbon monoxide poisoning caused by improper venting or an incomplete combustion of fuels.

Here are some tips for using your electric space heater safely:

• Keep the heater at least 3 feet from flammable items such as curtains, furniture, or bedspreads.

• Select a space heater with a guard around the heating element.

• When buying a heater, choose one that has been tested and certified by a nationally recognized testing institution such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL).

• Buy a heater that can handle the area that you want to heat.

• Read and follow the manufacturer’s operating instructions.

• Keep children and pets away from space heaters.

• Never leave a space heater unattended.

• Never go to sleep with a space heater on.

• Never use or store flammable liquids near a space heater.

• Do not use a heater in a bathroom–it’s a high-moisture area that could cause damage.

• Keep heaters away from water to prevent electrocution.

• Do not use an extension cord with a space heater.

• Do not use the heater to dry clothes.

• Be sure the heater’s plug fits snugly in an outlet. The cord and plug may feel warm when operating since the unit draws so much power, but they should not feel hot. If they do, unplug the heater and have a qualified repair person check for problems.

• Do not attempt to repair a broken heater yourself. It should be checked and repaired by a qualified appliance service center.

For additional safety tips on using space heaters that use wood or kerosene, visit the CPSC’s Web site.