As the coldest months of the year approach in much of the Northern Hemisphere, heating systems are activated and heaters are often taken out of storage.
Firefighters do not recommend plugging these devices into a hub.
Never connect space heaters to a hub.
When the weather turns cold, people all over the world use space heaters. When the cold wind blows outside, we all want to feel warm and comfortable. Oregon firefighters have issued a critical safety report in anticipation of the upcoming space heater season. (1) What is their best advice?
The heater should never be connected to an extension cord. (1) On Facebook, Umatilla County Fire District No. 1 in Hermiston, Oregon before plugging the heater into the power strip. “These units are not designed to handle the high current flow needed for a space heater and can overheat or even catch fire due to the added energy flow.” (1)
Connecting the starter to the hub
In addition to the Oregon Fire Department, there are other organizations that provide space heating safety guidelines. The Toledo, Ohio Fire Department issued a similar statement after a house caught fire due to improper use of a heater. The entire house immediately caught fire when the heater ignited the couch.
(2) Everyone must use space heaters with caution as they can reach temperatures of up to 600 degrees Fahrenheit.
(2)
Their advice includes:
Always plug directly into the wall unit, not into an extension cord.
Always leave at least three feet of clearance around the heating element.
Never switch on the heater while you are sleeping or in another room and always supervise it when it is in use. Heaters should be placed on a smooth, level surface. Never place heaters on carpets, chairs, tables, or cabinets.
How to protect your home from electrical fires
Electrical fires can be prevented even during the really cold winter months. Our top recommendations for fire prevention this winter and throughout the year are as follows:
1. Unplug all devices that generate heat when not in use.
This includes heaters, kettles, and hair styling tools. Basically, anything that produces heat when turned on can overheat and catch fire if left on for an extended period of time or can turn on due to an electrical surge or malfunction.
2. Extension cords are for temporary use only.
Extension cords are for temporary use only; they should not be used continuously. If you need more outlets, have an electrician install them. (4)
3. Do not remove the third pin.
The third pin of the power cable serves as protection against power outages and overvoltages. Consider upgrading your home’s two-pin power outlets.
4. Upgrade your electrical setup.
It is likely that your home has an outdated electrical system if it is old.
Contact an electrician to check and possibly update it. Systems that are older and less sophisticated are more likely to overheat and catch fire.
5. Do not use damaged power cords.
Do not use the power cord if it is frayed, has a broken end, is disconnected from the plug, or is cracked.
In conclusion, the safety of space heaters is a critical issue, especially during the colder months when these devices are used more frequently.
Firefighters and safety experts stress the importance of never plugging heaters into power lines because they are not designed to handle the high current flow these devices need. Connecting the heater to an extension cord can lead to overheating and in some cases a fire. This simple but essential advice can prevent unnecessary risks and keep households safe during the winter.
In addition to immediate space heating advice, it is important to consider general electrical safety in the home throughout the year. Unplugging heat-generating equipment when not in use, using extension cords only temporarily, and keeping electrical systems up-to-date can go a long way in preventing electrical fires. In addition, keeping power cords in good condition and avoiding makeshift repairs such as removing the third prong from the plug ensures safe operation of electrical systems. By following these precautions, we can greatly reduce the risk of fires and keep our homes safe for us and our families.Â
Safety should always be a priority and by following these guidelines we can enjoy the warmth and comfort of our heating systems without putting ourselves in danger. Firefighter warnings serve as a timely reminder to use common sense and take the necessary steps to prevent accidents, allowing us to focus on staying warm and safe during the winter months.