How Safe Is Your Space Heater?

Now that winter is here, New Englanders have to worry about keeping themselves warm at home and in the office. Staying warm is important but heating a home or office can be expensive and let’s be real, no one can ever agree on what temperature the thermostat should be set at. Thus, a majority of people have invested in space heaters to maintain a reasonable gas bill and limit the number of heating tiffs with coworkers and housemates.

Space Heater Statistics

Even though space heaters seem to be the most reasonable solution for cold weather, there are safety hazards associated with the individual heating device. According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI), more than 65,000 home fires are attributed to heating equipment each year. Consequently, Nationwide reports that 80% of home heating fire deaths involve space heaters and 24% of these deaths were due to space heaters placed too close to items such as upholstered furniture, clothing, mattress, or bedding. Additionally, Nationwide estimates that 50% of all home heating fires occur in the winter months of December, January, and February. In total, Nationwide estimates that $559 million worth of property damage was the direct result of space heaters.

Space Heater Safety Tips

Green Home Solutions has provided a number of safety tips to help protect you against unreasonable space heater fatalities. For starters, it’s important to read all manufacturer instructions and inspect your space heater for loose parts, frayed cords, cracks, and other damages before using it for the first time. Furthermore, Nationwide recommends that you keep your space heater on a hard, level, and nonflammable surface. Your space heater should be kept in a kid-free zone and should be placed at least 3 feet from anything that can easily burn. Additionally, when it comes to extension cords, it’s safer to plug your space heater directly into an outlet with enough capacity.

Contact Us Today

At the Bottaro Law Firm, LLC we represent clients every day who suffer personal injuries from accidents and hazardous products. Contact our personal injury and product liability lawyers today to discuss your case and what kind of compensation you deserve. Our experienced legal team is available 24/7 for a free consultation. Give us a call at 401-777-7777.