The months of December, January, and February are busy months for fire departments because more people are using alternate resources for heat such as space heaters.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, heating is the second leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries, and the third leading cause of home fire deaths. More than two out of five (44%) of home heating fires involve space heaters. If you need to use a space heater, follow these simple guidelines to stay safe.
6 SAFETY RULES FOR SPACE HEATERS
Use a space heater that has been tested in a recognized testing lab.
Plug your space heater directly into the wall. Do not use an extension cord.
Use a space heater with an automatic shut-off feature in the event your heater gets tipped over.
Use your space heater in an area with a three foot radius from flammable items like bedding, drapes, clothing, and people.
Place your space heater on a flat surface.
Turn off your space heater before you fall asleep and when you leave the room.
While we're talking about fire safety, why stop there. It's also a great time to check the batteries in your fire/smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. Do you have an evacuation plan in the event you do have a home fire? The National Fire Protection Agency recommends you put one in place and then practice it.
For more information about fire prevention and safety, visit the National Fire Protection Association website.
Written by Stacey Imber, co-owner of Moving Crew NJ, LLC. Moving Crew NJ is a family owned, local moving company that wants you to have many years in your home without incident.