🚒🔥 WOOD STOVE AND SPACE HEATER SAFETY 🔥🚒

With a possible winter storm approaching this weekend a lot of people are preparing in case of power outages. Wood stoves and space heaters are a great for warming, but can be dangerous if safety measures are not taken and should be operated with a measure of caution.

According to National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) data gathered from 2016 to 2020, space heaters and wood stoves, whether portable or stationary, accounted for 33% of residential house fires. In addition, 88% of residential heating fire civilian deaths involved space heaters. They contributed to 80% of fire related injuries and 55% of residential property damage.

To reduce the risk of fire, some safety tips are provided below:

🚒🔥 WOOD STOVE SAFETY 🔥🚒

Wood stoves are a great source of heat over open fireplaces, but safety tips should be followed.

• If purchasing a wood stove make certain it has been tested and is listed with a nationally recognized testing laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL).

• Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and pay close attention to clearance requirements. If no instructions are available, NFPA suggests clearances should be 36” away from any combustible item, such as curtains or flooring.

• Install a floor protector that meets the heating appliance manufacturer’s requirements, and extends at least 18” on all sides of the heater, unless the manufacturer suggests otherwise.

• Have the chimney and stovepipe cleaned and inspected annually by certified chimney sweeps.

• Burn only seasoned hardwood or wood pellets in the stove, according to the manufacturer’s directions.

• Wait until ashes have cooled before removing them and place them away from any structures. Never use a vacuum cleaner to remove ashes from a fireplace or wood stove. Use a metal container, never plastic. Best to douse with water if possible.

• Make certain to have a working smoke detector in the home. It is recommended to have one on each level of the home, with the best practice being a working smoke detector in each bedroom.

• Carbon Monoxide (CO) detectors are also recommended in the home, especially when using fireplaces or wood stoves.

• Make sure the chimney damper is open so smoke can travel outside the home.

• Never use flammable liquids!!!!!!!!

🚒🔥 ELECTRIC SPACE HEATER SAFETY 🔥🚒

Radiant space heaters warm whatever is directly in front of them, while convection heaters can help make an entire room more comfortable.

• Purchase space heaters that are listed with Underwriters Laboratories (UL).

• Select one that cuts off automatically if tipped over.

• Keep it at least three feet from any combustible materials such as bedding, curtains, and furniture.

• Keep children and pets away from space heaters.

• Place the unit on a level surface.

• Never dry clothing with a space heater.

• Do not leave on while sleeping.

• Use appropriate drop cords per manufacturing recommendations.

• If a breaker trips while using, do not turn the breaker back on while the unit is plugged in. The circuit may be overloaded; other devices may be drawing too many amps. Best to call a licensed electrician.

🚒🔥 KEROSENE SPACE HEATER SAFETY 🔥🚒

These units can heat a large area in your home. Safety tips should be followed as follows:

• Purchase units that have been tested and approved by a laboratory such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL).

• Only use in well-ventilated areas, away from flames or other heat sources.

• Keep children and pets away from the heater.

• Use only approved fuel: Clear 1-K grade kerosene, never gasoline.

• Do not fill with fuel until the unit has cooled off.

• Refill outdoors.

  
  

FINAL REMINDER

Stay safe and make certain to have fresh batteries and a working smoke detector in your home. In addition, it’s a great idea to have a home escape plan with every member of the family in case of a fire emergency in the home.

If you have any questions on home safety, please call your local fire department.