Safe + Sound, Space Heater Use and Safety

With temperatures dropping, here are a few quick reminders of potential hazards of space heater use, and a few tips to ensure their use is as safe as possible!

HAZARDS TO CONSIDER

Like any electrical device, space heaters can pose a shock hazard.
Space heaters use a lot of electricity, they can easily overload circuits, causing a power failure.
Most importantly, space heaters are often a leading factor and primary cause of winter fires, particularly when used improperly, placed too close to flammable items, or left on, unattended.

Before plugging in your space heater this season, review the following tips to keep you, and your coworkers, safe and warm.

Before putting your space heater into service, perform a quick but thorough inspection to ensure it is free of defects, clean, and set up properly.
Keep your heater at least three feet away from anything flammable and away from people.
Never leave a space heater running when a room is unoccupied.
Only plug your space heater directly into a wall outlet. Never use an extension cord or power strip.
Inform your coworkers of your space heater and make sure everyone knows how to use it properly.
Don’t place space heaters under desks or areas with little ventilation.
Only the use of space heaters with a tip-over safety switch is allowed.
Ensure that the space heater is unplugged when leaving for the day.
Don’t place space heaters in highly trafficked areas where someone may trip over it.
Make sure smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are installed and functioning properly, throughout the area.
Before using any space heater, read the manufacturer’s instructions and warning labels carefully.