Heating Your Home Safely

As we are now well into the heating season Russell Fire Department would like to caution all residents about the hazards involved with the use of supplemental heaters, commonly called space heaters. One of the jobs of a local fire department involves dissemination of information and the education of residents concerning fire hazards. Fire departments around the country share information on common hazards, frequent misuses of combustible materials and equipment or appliances that pose a unique or extremely dangerous condition. Space heaters account for approximately 300 deaths a year in more than 21,000 fires attributed to their use, or misuse.

Many sources of information on the correct and safe use of these devices are available and a few will be listed at the end of this article, but a few quick safety tips are mentioned here. Always read and follow the safety information delivered with your appliance. The manufacturer is the expert on the operation and potential hazards of your device and they are a great source of safety information. Virtually all companies offer phone information assistance and many have online manuals. If you have an older device check with the manufacturer to see if it meets all currents standards, some times the purchase of a new device is the only safe step to take. Never run a supplemental heater when you are sleeping or leave it unattended. Always have operating smoke detectors in the area of operation. Never place the heater next to or in close proximity to flammable or combustible materials such at blankets, curtains, trashcans or furniture. Do not allow children to play in the area of an operating space heater and always make sure it is located on a level hard and non-flammable surface.

These are just a few safety tips on the use of supplemental heaters and they apply to gas, kerosene or electric appliances. More information on their hazards and additional safety tips can be found at the web site of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, www.cpsc.gov.