As Boston personal injury attorneys, we understand that space heaters are essential to some to stay warm in the winter. However, to avoid personal injury care needs to be taken when using space heaters in your home. This is because space heating is a leading cause of residential fires.
According to holidaysafety.org, if you must use space heaters, consider the following safety tips:
1. Be sure your space heater bears the mark of a nationally recognized testing laboratory.
2. Check the cord. If frayed, worn or damaged, do not use it.
3. Do not use space heaters with extension cords. Plug them directly into an outlet on an unburdened circuit.
4. Keep space heaters at least 3 feet away from anything that can burn, such as bedding, curtains, furniture, clothing, and paper.
5. Place space heaters on level, flat surfaces. Never place heaters on cabinets, tables, or furniture.
6. Do not use a space heater in damp or wet areas unless it is specifically designed for use outdoors or in bathrooms.
7. Keep space heaters out of high-traffic and exit areas.
8. Do not use space heaters to warm bedding, cook food, dry clothing or thaw pipes.
9. Do not leave a space heater unattended and turn them off and unplug them when you leave the room or go to sleep.
10. Finally, do not use space heaters in rooms where children are unsupervised.
Bellotti Law Group, P.C. handles personal injury cases.
