14 Space Heater Safety Mistakes to Avoid

When winter arrives, space heaters can provide much-needed warmth, but they also pose serious fire risks if not used properly. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), nearly half of all home heating fires occur between December and February. Surprisingly, fireplaces are not the leading cause of these fires. Between 2018 and 2022, space heaters and heating stoves accounted for 46% of home heating fires but were responsible for 76% of related deaths.

Since space heaters play a crucial role in home heating, it’s essential to follow proper safety precautions. Avoid these common mistakes to reduce fire hazards and keep your home safe this winter.

1. Keep Space Heaters Away from Flammable Materials

Maintain at least a 3 to 5-foot distance between your space heater and any fabric, including furniture, curtains, rugs, or bedding. Fabric materials can easily catch fire if placed too close to the heater.

2. Never Place a Heater on Furniture

Avoid placing space heaters on tables, dressers, or countertops. They can be easily knocked over, leading to a potential fire hazard. Instead, keep them on a stable, heat-resistant surface such as ceramic tile.

3. Don’t Place Heaters on Carpets or Rugs

Carpeting can trap heat and increase the risk of fire. If you don’t have hard flooring, use a heat-resistant mat to provide a safe surface.

4. Avoid Running Cords Under Rugs

Covering cords with rugs can cause overheating and increase fire risks. It also makes cords more susceptible to damage over time, creating additional hazards.

5. Never Use an Extension Cord with a Space Heater

Always plug space heaters directly into a wall outlet. Extension cords and power strips are not designed to handle the high energy demands of heaters and can overheat or short-circuit.

6. Supervise Pets and Children Around Heaters

Never leave children or pets unattended near a running space heater. They may accidentally knock it over or get too close and suffer burns.

7. Avoid Using Space Heaters in Moist Areas

Unless specifically designed for bathrooms, space heaters should not be used in humid environments where they risk exposure to water, which could cause electrocution or damage.

8. Don’t Leave Heaters on Overnight

Turn off space heaters before going to bed. If they overheat, tip over, or short-circuit while you’re asleep, the results could be disastrous.

9. Check for Safety Certifications

Before purchasing a space heater, look for safety certifications from UL (Underwriters Laboratory), CSA (Canadian Standards Association), or ETL (Intertek). These ensure the heater has passed rigorous safety tests.

10. Avoid Buying Secondhand Space Heaters

Used heaters may have frayed cords, missing safety features, or internal damage. Always opt for a new, certified space heater to ensure safety.

11. Replace Old or Damaged Heaters

Space heaters older than 10 years may lack modern safety features. If your unit makes strange noises, emits burning smells, or has visible damage, replace it immediately.

12. Keep Heaters Away from Doorways and Exits

Never block exits or pathways with a space heater. Ensure a clear escape route in case of an emergency.

13. Do Not Place Items on Top of Heaters

Never use a space heater as a drying rack. Placing clothes or other items on top can cause overheating and increase the risk of fire.

14. Use Proper Ventilation for Propane Heaters

If using a propane space heater indoors, ensure the area is well-ventilated. Choose a model with an oxygen depletion sensor (ODS) to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.

Conclusion

Space heaters can be a great way to stay warm, but they must be used with caution. Follow these safety tips to minimize fire risks and ensure your household remains safe throughout the winter months.