It looks like Long Island’s is in for some bitter cold temperatures this winter. Many Long Island home owner’s use space heaters in the rooms we spend the most time in, instead of cranking up the heat to warm an entire house. However, some home owner’s aren’t aware of the dangers of space heaters.
Space Heater Safety Tips
We’re sharing important space heater safety tips that Long Islander’s might not know about.
No Power Strips
Never plug your space heater into a power strip. Space Heaters are a high voltage appliance and will overheat a power strip, which can spark a fire. Plug it directly into a wall outlet, or a surge protector.
No Extension Cords
Extension cords can overheat, causing a spark, which leads to a fire.
Unplug, don’t just turn them off
If you leave the room, unplug Never sleep with the space heater on, always unplug it. NEVER leave your home with the space heater on, or plugged in. ALWAYS UNPLUG your space heater.
Flat Surface
Put your space heater on a flat surface, meaning NO CARPETS and NO FURNITURE.
3 Feet Rule
Follow the THREE FEET RULE. Don’t stand within three feet of a space heater. Keep your space heater at least 3 feet away from ANYTHING that’s flammable: curtains, papers, furniture, carpet, firewood, bedding, etc.
Clear three feet of space around the heater and make sure everyone in the home knows not to stand, or sit, near the space heater.
Follow Instructions
Read and follow the instructions that come with your space heater. Crazy, we know. Who reads instructions these days? With space heaters, don’t take any chances. Your life and your home’s safety is far more important than skipping the “read instructions” step!
Before the temperatures drop down to the single digits, give the Tango, Tango & Tango Commack office a call at 631.543.0500 to go over your home owner’s insurance, and ask any questions you have about filing a claim so you’re prepared just in case.