Space Heater Safety To Prevent Fire Restoration in Springfield Missouri

Space Heater Safety To Prevent Fire Restoration in Springfield Missouri

Space Heater Safety To Prevent Fire Restoration

As it gets colder over the winter, more families try to stay warm with a portable heater. Unfortunately, space heaters can be dangerous. The National Fire Protection Agency says 79% of major fire losses were caused by portable heaters.

Here are some things to look out far as you try and stay warm with these sub zero temperatures:

● Make sure to place the space heater on a hard, dry surface.
● Do not leave a space heater unattended. Turn off heaters when you go to bed or leave the room.
● Turn off portable heaters when they are not being used.
● Avoid using space heaters in small enclosed areas like under a desk or in a closet.
● Plug portable heaters directly into the wall avoid using a surge protector.
● Keep children and animals away from the grill of the space heater.
● Purchase a portable heater with an automatic shut off.
● Keep heaters at least 3 feet away from flammable materials such as curtains, blankets and furniture.

Even though electric space heaters do not have an open flame, the heating elements of some types of electric heaters are hot enough to ignite nearby combustibles like draperies, paper, clothing, furniture, and flammable liquids. It is, therefore, important to check surrounding objects periodically to see if they feel hot. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions to see how far the portable heater should be placed from combustible materials, and for how far the heater should be placed from the floor so that carpeting or flooring materials don’t ignite.

These tips can help to keep you and your family out of harm’s way this winter. Simple precautions can go a long way to protecting your home from the devastating effects of fire restoration in Springfield Missouri from a space heating catching on fire. If a fire does happen, remember that the smoke and fire damage restoration professionals at PuroClean Certified Restoration can help you get back to normal as soon as possible after a crisis.