Alternate Heating Source Safety Tips

The fall and winter is upon us. This causes many of us to seek out alternative sources to heat our home. Alternate heating sources are a major contributing factor in residential fire. The following safety tips will help you keep a safe home.

• Keep at least three feet of clearance between your alternate heat source and anything combustible.
• Do not keep or store combustible materials in closed areas or near a heat source.
• Never leave a heater on when you are not in the room or when you go to sleep, and never leave children or pets unattended near heating sources.
• If you use an electric heater, be careful not to overload the electrical circuit.
• Avoid using electrical heaters in bathrooms as they may come in contact with water.
• Only use heaters that have been tested to the latest safety standards and certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL). These heaters will have the most up-to-date safety features, such as automatic shut-offs. It is important to install and use heaters according to manufacturer’s recommendations.
• Do not use a range or oven as an alternate heating source.  This is a safety hazard and may be a source of toxic fumes.
• Do not use fuel burning appliances without the proper room ventilation.
• Never fill a kerosene heater while it is in operation or hot.  Avoid overfilling.