Be Careful!

Like it or not, the cold weather season is upon us!  And many of us supplement our heating system by using a space heater, whether it be in our living room, study, or bedroom.  However, if not used safely and properly, space heaters are a leading cause of home fires.  Don't become a statistic!  Be smart when it comes to using space heaters.  Here are some useful tips:

*When purchasing a space heater, make sure it's been UL tested and approved.  When you get the unit home, carefully read the Owner's Manual before using.

*Before plugging in your unit, carefully inspect the heater.  Are there any defects, any damage?  Is the electrical cord frayed or damaged?  Any wires exposed?  If the unit shows any sign of damage or defect, do not plug it in!

*Unless the instructions designate otherwise, NEVER use your space heater outdoors, or in a room with plumbing, like a kitchen or bathroom.  The last thing you want to expose your space heater to is running water!

*Space heaters are designed to be used for SUPPLEMENTAL heat.  Never use a space heater as your sole source for heating your home.  Not only is it dangerous, but the energy it will use will be extremely expensive!

*Don't run your unit for hours at a time.  Many units shut themselves off after a designated period of time, such as one or two hours.  But many units do not.  If your unit doesn't automatically shut off, run it only for an hour or so, then turn it off, and unplug it.

*Periodically feel the electrical cord.  If it's hot, turn your heater off, and unplug it at once!

*NEVER use a space heater while sleeping.  Always make sure your unit is running when there's an alert adult available.

*Set your unit on an even surface.  Never put a heater on an uneven, lopsided surface.

*When the unit is not in service, always make sure it's unplugged.

*Three feet. . .that's the minimum distance any object should be from a space heater--whether it be clothing, objects, toys, pets, or people!

*No unsupervised children!  A child sticking a finger and/or object inside the grill of a space heater can be seriously injured.  If you have an infant, keep him or her in a playpen while they're in the room with the unit.

Stay warm this cold weather season.  And stay safe!