Space heaters keep you cozy all winter long. However, with any heat source you need to take safety precautions. Make sure you stay safe this season with these portable heater safety tips.
Be mindful of your outlets.
Too much of anything isn’t good for you. Plugging in too many devices into an electrical outlet is no different. Overloading an outlet can increase your risk of electrical fires. Make sure your space heater is the only appliance plugged into the outlet. Don’t use extension cords or power strips as they increase the risk of an accident.
Inspect your cords.
Broken or exposed wires are never a good sign. Before you plug in your portable heater, make sure to look over the power cords. Don’t plug in the heater if you notice any damages.
Keep a safety perimeter.
To prevent fires, be sure to keep plenty of space around the heater. Avoid keeping any flammable materials nearby and keep a three-foot perimeter around the heater.
Invest in thermostat controls.
Use a heater that has advanced thermostat controls. That way you can use energy more efficiently by only heating the room when it’s needed.
Attend to your heat.
You wouldn’t leave an open flame unattended, why would you leave your heater unattended? Heat sources are a major risk when it comes to fire safety. Make sure to keep a watchful eye on any heat sources in your home. When you leave the room or go to sleep be sure to turn the heater off.
Check the safety rating.
Before you go out and buy a space heater, make sure to do some homework. Make sure the heater is safe by checking its safety rating. Safe heaters should have approval from a well established testing lab like Underwriters Laboratories.
Keep your home extra safe this winter with homeowners insurance. Contact the professionals at Fuller Insurance Agency, located in Southern California, for assistance finding the right policies for your lifestyle in the Chino Hills, Los Angeles, Long Beach and surrounding communities.
