by DB Kooper

Created on: December 15, 2008   Last Updated: December 18, 2008

As winter approaches and the weather gets colder many people will use space heaters to keep warm. Whether they are the primary means of heat or used in colder areas of your house certain precautions should be taken to stay safe. Space heaters are responsible for over 25,000 fires in homes every year in the U.S resulting in over 300 deaths, according to the U.S. Consumer Safety Commission. Fortunately these accidents can be avoided with proper use and precautions.

There are 2 basic types of space heaters. The combustion types such as kerosene and natural gas are classified as unvented or vented. Vented combustion space heaters are built into a wall and vented directly to the outside. Unvented combustion space heaters should not be used inside your house as they can produce carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides. Kerosene unvented space heaters are banned for indoor use in many U.S. states and several states have banned unvented natural gas types altogether. Here are a few things to keep in mind while using this type of space heater:

- Always have your vented space heater checked by a professional every year before you use it. You may not see structural problems that could affect proper venting or fire hazards in the flue. If the venting is blocked carbon monoxide could build up inside your home.
- Never use any fuel that isn't meant for the heater.Never use gasoline in a kerosine heater.
- Don't ever overfill or fill the space heater while it is hot.
- Always make sure the space heater whether it be vented or unvented is clear of any materials such as curtains, furniture,newspapers.Never use a space heater to dry clothing or cook.

The other common type of space heaters are electric. These are cleaner, more maintenance free yet still pose potential dangers if used incorrectly. Some things to remember while using electric space heaters:

- Avoid using extension cords with electric space heaters.If it is absolutely necessary to use one then make sure it is a heavy duty type at least 14 gauge. Never run them across a room where they can be tripped over.
- Buy an electric space heater that has a "tip switch".These will shut off immediately if knocked over.
- As with combustion heaters, be sure there is nothing near the electric space heater that could ignite or melt.

Both types of space heaters require common sense guidelines. Many fires occur each year because safety is taken for granted.

- Never allow children or pets near the heater. Never leave children unattended with a running heater in the room.

- Keep a 3 foot zone around the heater clear of any furniture or objects.

- Keep the heater on a flat surface,not carpeting.

- If the heater malfunctions, or sparks are seen do not use it. Have it repaired by a professional or returned. Never try to repair a faulty space heater yourself.

In addition to these basic space heater safety rules an exit strategy should always be in place for your family in case of a fire. All smoke and carbon monoxide detectors installed in your home should be checked and working before any type of space heater is used.

Space heaters can be a convenient way to warm those chilly areas in your home. Proper use and maintenance will assure a warm and safe winter for you and your family.

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