Portable heaters
Portable heaters start fires in England every day. To stay safe:
- Choose a safe location.
- Place the portable heater on a flat, stable surface at least three feet from flammable materials such as curtains, furniture, bedding, or clothing.
- Make sure it’s not obstructed by any objects, and put it somewhere where it’s unlikely to get knocked over (away from walkways and doorways).
- Read and follow manufacturer's instructions.
- Read guidelines issued with your portable heater before turning it on.
- Use heaters with built-in safety features.
- Opt for portable heaters that have essential safety features such as tip-over and overheating protection, automatically switching the device off if these hazards are sensed.
- Never leave unattended.
- Always turn off and unplug the portable heater when leaving the room or going to bed. Never leave it running unattended.
- Plug directly into wall outlet.
- Avoid using extension cords or power strips with portable heaters.
- Plug them directly into a wall outlet to reduce the risk of overheating and electrical fires.
- Ensure the outlet is in good condition and can handle the heater's power requirements.
- Regularly inspect and maintain.
- Perform routine inspections of your portable heater for any signs of wear, damage, or loose connections.
- Keep it clean and free of debris to ensure proper functioning.
- If you notice any issues, discontinue use and have it inspected or repaired by a qualified professional.
- Install smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.
- Place them near the sleeping areas and on every level of your home.
- Regularly test and maintain these devices.