Space Heater Safety 101

Colder weather is here and that means consumers will want to bundle up and stay warm this winter. A space heater is an efficient, cost-effective way to stay warm, but if not used safely, disaster could result in your home.

Space heaters can pose serious fire and electrical hazards that lack adequate safety features, or if improperly plugged in. Here are some safety tips you should follow if you use one of these space heaters:

• Check to see if your space heater has the label showing that it is listed by a recognized testing laboratory.
• Read instructions and warning labels carefully.
• Inspect heaters for cracked or broken plugs or loose connections before each use. If there is evidence of wear and tear do not use the heater.
• Never leave a space heater unattended. Turn it off when you’re leaving a room, or going to sleep, and don’t let pets or children play right next to it.
• Do not use space heaters to warm bedding, cook food, dry clothing or thaw pipes.
• Make sure your smoke alarms work and test them periodically.
• Keep your space heaters at least three feet away from anything that can burn, including papers, clothing, and rugs.
• Plug space heaters directly into a wall outlet and do not overload an outlet. Do not use an extension cord or power strip, which could overheat and result in a fire.
• Place space heaters on level, flat surfaces. Never place heaters on cabinets, tables, furniture, or carpet, which can overheat and start a fire.
• Always unplug and safely store the heater when it is not in use.

If you or a loved one has been injured by a space heater that was manufactured improperly, or the result of another’s negligence, you may have a potential claim for damages against the manufacturer. The Ammons Law Firm and its product defect attorneys have the legal resources and experience to assist you. Call (281) 801-5617.