Space Heaters and Safety

 

Space Heaters and Safety 

 

We at SIMMONS PLUMBING and HEATING know that severe winter weather can put a strain on your furnace and heating system. We are here for all your maintenance and service needs. And while we offer twenty-four hour emergency service, seven days a week 365 days a year we cannot guarantee that we will be at your door instantly. So with that in mind we would like to offer you some safety tips for alternative sources of heat you may require until we arrive to get your heating system back up and running. 



 

Electric Space Heaters


 

•  Buy only heaters guaranteed by a certified laboratory,for example, Underwriters Laboratories. 
• Make sure the heater will switch off automatically if it falls over, and it has  thermostat control.
• Do not use a space heater to dry clothes or store objects on top of it.
• Like the name implies space heaters need space. Keep objects, especially combustibles, at least three feet away from each heater.
•  Make sure that your space heater is always unplugged when not in use and turn it off at night  or whenever you sleep. 
•  Always plug your space heater directly into a wall socket, never use an extension cord.

 

Kerosene heaters

 

• Always refuel your kerosene heater outdoors. 
• Turn it off and wait for it to cool down before refueling and only use the correct type of fuel.
  

   

  General Heating Tips

   

• Alternative sources of heating such as fireplaces and chimneys should be checked and cleaned  by a professional each year prior to using. Your furnace and heating system should also be checked and cleaned. Give SIMMONS a call, we are more than happy to help.
• As with space heaters keep three feet around clear of clutter and combustibles.
• Never use ignitable liquids to start a fire.
• Only use seasoned wood in  your fireplace.
• Place all fireplace ash into a metal container and dispose outdoors away from your home. 
• Fireplace ash has the potential to ignite days after it has been discarded.
• Make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are working properly by pushing the test button on the front cover.
• Remember to practice a home escape plan frequently with your family.
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For additional information from the USFA on Winter Fire Safety; 
click here.

Image courtesy of "Salvatore Vuono" at Freedigitalphotos.net