Heating Safety
Heating equipment is the second highest cause of fires in homes, with space heaters contributing to 73 percent of fire-related deaths. Observe the following guidelines when you are purchasing, setting up, and using heating equipment to ensure you use the proper tools and methods to stay safe and warm this winter season.
Space Heaters
- When buying a new space heater, make sure it carries the mark of an independent testing laboratory and is legal to use in your work are or residence
- If you can’t have your space heater installed by professionals, make sure you install it according to the manufacturer’s specific instructions
- Make sure there are at least three feet of empty space on all sides of your space heater when choosing a place to install it
- Never use an extension cord, and make sure the outlet you plug your space heater into has the sufficient capacity required to operate it
- Use only the proper grade of the proper fuel for a liquid-fueled space heater, and never use gasoline in any heater not specifically approved for gasoline use
- Refuel a liquid-powered space heater only when the equipment is cool and in a well-ventilated area
- Always turn off space heaters when you leave the room, or when the manufacturer’s instructions say they should be turned off
- Always turn off space heaters before going to bed; do not risk accidentally knocking them over in the dark
Fireplaces/Wood Stoves
- Do not use artificial logs in wood stoves
- Make sure your fireplace has a sturdy screen to prevent sparks from flying into the room
- Always allow the fireplace and ashes to cool before disposing ashes in a metal container you store outside your home
- Use only dry, seasoned wood to avoid the build-up of creosote, an oily deposit that easily catches fire
To avoid carbon monoxide in your home:
- Make sure fuel-burning equipment vents outside
- Make sure the venting passage is always unobstructed
- Make sure that the exit point is properly sealed around the vent to prevent gas from escaping back into your home
- Inspect all heating equipment annually, and clean as necessary
- Test smoke alarms monthly
- Install a carbon monoxide alarm in a central location outside each sleeping area
