Safely Heating Your Home with Auxiliary Heating Devices

Did you know home fires occur more in the winter months than any other time of the year? The improper use of portable space heaters and the unsafe use of fireplaces to supplement central heating or to heat one room is one of the main causes.

If you plan to use “extra” heating sources make sure to follow these recommendations to help prevent fires and to stay safe this winter season.

Portable Space Heaters

Follow all recommended safety recommendations when using space heaters in your home.

• Purchase a heater with the seal of a qualified testing laboratory.
• Keep the heater at least 3 feet away from anything that can burn such as draperies, blankets, and sofas.
• Choose a heater with a thermostat and overheat protection.
• Place the heater on a solid, flat surface, not on carpets, furniture, or countertops.
• Make sure your heater has an auto shut-off to turn the heater off if it tips over.
• Keep space heaters out of the way of foot traffic. Never block an exit.
• Never allow pets or children near an electric heater. Accidental contact could result in serious shock or burns.
• Plug the heater directly into the wall outlet. Never use an extension cord.
• Space heaters should be turned off and unplugged when you leave the room or go to bed.

Wood burning fireplaces also require special attention when in use.

Wood Burning Stoves and Fireplaces

• Keep a glass or metal screen in front of your fireplace to prevent embers or sparks from flying out.
• Keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet from your fireplace or wood stove.
• Do not burn paper in your fireplace or wood stove.
• Put the fire out before you go to sleep or leave your home.
• Have your chimney inspected and cleaned each year by a professional.
• Put ashes in a metal container with a lid. Place the container outside at least 10 feet from your home.
• Keep the doors of your wood stove closed unless loading or stoking the fire.

For more information and free fire-safety resources, visit the National Fire Protection Association website.

Are Some Rooms Colder Than Others in Your Home?

Mecko’s Heating & Cooling would be happy to inspect your heating system and make recommendations on how to improve heat distribution throughout your home. Just give us a call at 765-447-7555.