Ekurhuleni Disaster and Emergency Management Services spokesperson William Ntladi warned that in as much as heaters provide much needed heat they also have the potential to ignite fires.
Ntladi said safety should be a consideration when using portable heaters.
“Portable electrical heaters have the potential to ignite nearby combustible materials, such as curtains, beds, sofas, papers, clothing and domestic flammable liquids, such as paraffin, turpentine and methylated spirit, among others,” he added.
If heaters are left unattended they can cause major fire destruction to properties and, in extreme cases, loss of life.
Most electrical heaters, Ntladi added, emit infra-red radiation heat that directly heats objects and people within their line of sight.
He said they pose burn and fire hazards and they should be used with great caution.
Following are more electric heater safety tips from DEMS:
*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).
*Make sure the heater plug fits tightly into the wall outlet. If not, do not use the outlet to power the heater.
*Always check and follow the manufacturer’s instructions 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 carpet. This can damage the cord, causing it and nearby objects to burn.
*Keep combustible materials, such as furniture, clothing, curtains, papers and beds at least a metre from the front, sides and rear of the heater.
*Ensure that the heater is placed on a stable, flat, solid and horizontal surface.
*Drying of wet clothing using a heater is still a far too common dangerous practice.
*During use, check frequently to determine if the heater plug or cord, wall outlet, or face-plate is hot. If so, discontinue use of the heater, and have a qualified electrician check and/or repair the appliance.
*Never use a heater you suspect is damaged. Before use, inspect heater, cord and plug for damage. Remember to follow all operation and maintenance instructions.
