How to Prevent Space Heater Fires

10/11/2021 (Permalink)

If you don’t have a space heater already but want to buy one, consider getting one with an auto shut-off feature.

According to the NFPA, heating is the second leading cause of home fires in the United States. Your space heater could likely cause a fire more than anything else in your home. We implore you to continue reading below so that you know how to prevent space heater fires.

Whenever a fire occurs in your home, contact the experts over at SERVPRO of North Richland Hills. Our team can provide you with reliable and fast fire damage restoration services in Fort Worth. 

Inspect Your Heater’s Power Cord

Examine your space heater’s power cord and look closely at the rubber casing wrapped around the wiring. Also, look for any signs of fraying at the cord and do not touch any exposed wires without protective gear (i.e. rubber gloves).

Check Your Power Supply

Take a close look at the electrical socket that’s used to power your space heater. If there are any signs of damage, charring, or discoloration on the socket, don’t use it to power your heater.

 A damaged outlet may have a technical fault that will cause space heater fires and can be a shock hazard.

Refuel Your Space Heater Outside

Some space heaters will need fuel — such as kerosene — to operate. When you need to refuel your space heater, do it outside and away from your home. Even better, refuel your heater in an area with no flammable objects nearby. 

As you are fueling, always wear thick gloves and a mask so you don’t inhale any harmful fumes.

If a fire does occur and damage is dealt to your property, call us right away for our fire damage restoration services.

Buy a Space Heater With Auto Shut-off

If you don’t have a space heater already but want to buy one, consider getting one with an auto shut-off feature.

The best way to prevent a space heater fire is to get one that will recognize the potential danger. Space heaters with an auto shut-off feature will activate when overheating or a malfunction occurs.

Give Your Space Heater Some Room

Keep your space heater away from clutter and with plenty of space around it. 

While your space heater’s exterior plastic will protect it from burning, flammable objects nearby can be set ablaze. For this reason, it’s best you keep your space heater away from anything even remotely flammable.

Use a Space Heater Appropriately to Prevent Fires

Each space heater model is designed to operate differently. Besides following the aforementioned tips, the best thing to prevent a space heater fire is to learn how your unique device works. Thoroughly read the instruction manual so that you know how to operate your heater correctly to prevent fires. 

If your home has been damaged in a fire, call SERVPRO of North Richland Hills at (817) 589-1499. With our expertise, we can provide you with the fire damage restoration services you need.