Electric Heater Safety

Electric Space Heater fires cause over 160 deaths per year.  Property losses from electric space heater fires cost approximately $50 million annually.  To help readily avoid the potential hazards of using an electric space heater, please review the basic safety guidelines below...

Installation and Maintenance

• Make sure that you have the right wiring and outlets with sufficient voltage.
• Keep combustibles at least three (3) feet away from heaters.
• Check for frayed wires, blown fuses.  If you find any, replace immediately.

Safety Tips

• Never use your electric space heater near water, in a bathroom or damp basement.
• Unplug your electric space heater when not in use.  Don't overload your wiring!
• Give your space heater plenty of space, behind and in front of it.

Buying Guidelines

• Buy only heaters with Underwriter Laboratories (UL) safety listing.
• Do look for a thermostat control that shuts down if the heater gets too hot and a tip-over switch that turns off the heater if it is knocked over.
• Do the grill, cover or sides ever become too hot to handle?
• Is the grill designed to keep heating elements out of reach of children's fingers or toys?