Space Heaters - Indoor Safety

Purpose - Space heaters provide secondary heating using natural gas, electricity, or fuel oil (kerosene). Some space heaters are meant to be permanent installations, while others are portable. It is not recommended to use any unvented natural gas or LP fireplace or space heater, due to concerns of carbon monoxide and oxygen depletion.

Dangers - Fires, natural gas leaks, carbon monoxide poisoning and electric shocks.

Prevention -

• Install and maintain smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
• Inspect space heaters frequently during the heating season.
• Keep the area around space heaters free of clutter.
• Never leave an operating portable space heater unattended.

Emergency - Follow the emergency procedures if:

• You suspect carbon monoxide poisoning.
• There is a fire.
• You smell gas.
• Someone gets shocked.

Safety Tips -

• Be sure to use a space heater according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Make sure portable space heaters are set on a firm, steady base.
• Use fuel-burning space heaters only with adequate ventilation.
• Electric space heaters should be properly grounded. Make certain they are plugged into a circuit that can handle the load.
• Keep space heaters away from combustible and flammable materials.
• Never use a gas stove, electric range, or a charcoal grill as a space heater.
• Only use fuels for which your space heater has been designed.