Portable electrical heaters are high wattage appliances.
These appliances have the potential to ignite nearby combustible materials such as curtains, beds, sofas, papers, clothing and domestic flammable liquids such as paraffin, turpentine, methylated spirits and so on.
Heaters that are left unattended can cause major fire damage to properties and in extreme cases, loss of life.
Safety must always be a top priority when using portable heaters.
Most electrical heaters emit infra-red radiation heat that directly heats objects and people within its line of sight. These are more efficient choices when used in the room for a few hours.
The heaters pose burn and fire hazards and should be used with great caution.
Here are some electric heater safety tips:
- Electric heaters should be plugged directly into the wall outlet. If an extension cord is necessary, use the shortest possible heavy duty cord (14-gauge wire or larger).
- Be sure the heater plug fits tight into the wall outlet. If not, do not use the outlet to power the heater.
- Always check and follow any manufacturer`s instruction pertaining to the use of extension cords.
- When purchasing an electric heater, ask the salesperson whether the heater has been safety-certified. A certified heater will have a safety certification mark.
- Buy a unit with a tip over safety switch, which automatically shuts off the heater if the unit is tipped over.
- Never leave the heater operating while unattended, or while you are sleeping.
- Never run the heater`s cord under rugs or carpeting. This can damage the cord, causing it and nearby objects to burn.
- Keep combustible materials such as furniture, clothing, curtains, papers, beds at least a meter away from the front, sides and rear of the heater.
- Insure that the heater is placed on a stable flat solid horizontal surface.
- Drying wet clothing using a heater is still far too common and is a dangerous practice.
- During use, check frequently to determine if the heater plug or cord, wall outlet, or faceplate is hot. If so, discontinue use of the heater and have a qualified electrician check and/or repair the appliance.
- Never use the heater you suspect is damaged. Before use, inspect the heater, cord and plug for damage. Follow all operation and maintenance instructions.
