Heating a home with space heaters can be tempting, especially in states like Nebraska which can have brutally cold winters. There are many dangers, however, associated with using these types of devices. According to the National Fire Protection Association one third of all heating related home fires are caused by problems with space heaters.
Why Space Heaters Are Dangerous
Fire is the most obvious danger when using a space heater, but there are other potential problems associated with heaters. Direct contact with a heater can cause burns and even shock. Using extension cords or plugging the heater into the same outlet as other appliances can increase the chance of the plug becoming overheated. Sometimes space heaters release carbon monoxide, which is odorless and can be fatal. Heaters can also overload circuits. People may not realize that industrial strength heaters, such as those with over 1500 watts, are not intended for use inside.
Devastating Results
Sometimes using space heaters can result in tragic consequences. One of those unfortunate incidents occurred on December 18, 2013 in Omaha, Nebraska. A mother and her daughter survived a devastating mobile home fire, but her two young sons did not. Officials have stated that it was highly probably this tragedy happened because of space heaters, which were used throughout the mobile home, including the area where the fire started. According to the American Red Cross half of all homes with children under 18 are using some source of alternate heat such as space heaters, stoves, or fireplaces.
Taking Precautions
If a space heater must be used there are several precautions that should be taken. Preferably, purchase a heater that is new and has been tested in a nationally recognized laboratory. A carbon monoxide and smoke detector should be installed in any area where the space heater is located. It's also a good idea to use a heater that comes with an automatic shut off in case the heater falls over. Space heaters should be kept three feet from anything that could burn. They should never be left on when people leave the house or are sleeping. Some cities have even banned the use of certain types of space heaters. Before purchasing a heater it would be advised to check what was legal in each county or city the heater was being used.
