If the high costs of fuel have you considering the spot method of heating your home with a portable heater, keep in mind the dangers that space heaters present if not used properly. Despite what many think, space heaters are not highly efficient and have significant downsides in terms of safety.
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), over 25,000 residential fires begin every year from space heaters. Those fires result in over 300 deaths. In addition, approximately 6,000 people receive treatment in the emergency room each year for burn injuriescaused by space heaters in non-fire situations.
 Room gas heaters, portable kerosene heaters and portable electric heaters have the highest risk of fires and injuries. In order to use space heaters safely, follow these tips:
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- Keep space heaters at least three feet away from combustible items
- Use space heaters sparingly and not as the main heating source for your home
- Place the heater on a flat, level surface
- Never place the heater in a damp, wet area
- Make sure the heater has the UL Mark, which means it passed UL’s safety standards
- If the plug gets hot, this could mean the sign of a possible home wiring problem
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The CPSC also recommends that you never leave a space heater on all night while you sleep. Following the advice above can help reduce the risk of a fire in your home and keep you safe this winter. Injuries from a fire are often the most painful to endure and can permanently alter your life.
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Harrell & Nowak, L.L.C. – New Orleans injury lawyer