Space heater safety guide: Turn up the heat without risk of fire

A horrific fire in the Bronx that killed 17 people has once again brought attention to the hazards of home space heaters. Space heaters can be a welcome supplement to your central heating system or a handy and inexpensive way to heat a space without fixed heat. But exercising great caution and care when using a space heater is extremely important.

According to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, space heaters are responsible for more than 25,000 house fires every year, in addition to a number of deaths and injuries. With the risks associated with space heater usage, it's no surprise people are hesitant about using space heaters in their homes. As long as you follow best practices, space heaters aren't inherently dangerous.

Here's what you can do to keep you and your home safe while using space heaters.

What types of space heaters are available?

There are four types of space heaters:

No matter which type of space heater you buy, be sure to check that it's a recent model with an Underwriters Laboratories label. Also, check to see what size room the heater is designed for, and generally keep to devices appropriate for the room in which you plan to use them.

Space heater safety features to consider

When purchasing a space heater, consider the following safety features:

Extra safety features are good to keep in mind -- especially if you plan to use the heater in certain contexts. If you have pets or children, tip-over switches and nonmetal faces are important features to consider. Likewise, if you plan to use the heater without constantly monitoring it yourself, you will probably want to consider an automatic shut-off feature, or a thermostat that allows you to set a certain target temperature.

Space heater safety tips

Space heaters have caused many house fires, injuries and deaths over the years. If you plan to use a space heater during the cold winter months, you'll want to make sure you are using it properly to avoid potentially fatal mistakes.

To keep yourself and your home safe while using a space heater:

When it's cold outside, a space heater can be the perfect way to create a warm, comfortable living area. Although space heaters can be a hazard, when used correctly they are a convenient, affordable option when you're looking to quickly and easily supplement your home's central heating system.

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