Space Heater Safety in your Richmond Home

9/18/2021 (Permalink)

Space Heater Safety in your Richmond Home

Preventing Richmond Fire

The weather is starting to turn colder. We know when your home starts to get chilly, and you do not want to crank up the heat, a space heater is the best alternative. Space heaters do create a cozy home environment. Their biggest problem is that they also create a home environment that can be the perfect setting to create a fire. 

Before you fire up that space heater consider these tips to stay safe. 

1. NEVER crowd the heater: Space heaters can be easily flammable. The best way to prevent this is to keep drapey materials away from them. This includes actual drapers, towels, clothes, rugs, and other linens. We have had several house fires that we have cleaned where someone accidentally threw a towel on a space heater when getting out of the shower or bath. Space heaters cannot handle fabrics crowding them. Making sure your heater has heat flow is the best way to reduce the risk of fire. 

2. NEVER use an extension cord: Always use a wall outlet to plug in your space heater. This grounds the plug and can reduce the risk of overheating a power strip or multi cord. 

3. NEVER place one on uneven ground: Earlier we discussed keeping heaters away from rugs, make sure to never place them on a rug that is tufted or will make the heater uneven or shaky. This could cause it to tip over and come in contact with something flammable. 

We love a space heater to create a snug place this winter, but follow these tips to keep your home or business safe from fire damage from a space heater.