SAN ANTONIO – A space heater can help keep your home comfortable in bone-chilling temperatures, but experts warn they can pose dangers, especially if they aren’t used properly.
Portable space heater fires cause an average 70 deaths and 160 injuries a year, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission.
In February 2022, a 91-year-old woman died after the home’s space heater accidentally fell over, according to fire investigators.
Before you plug in the space heater, here is what fire safety experts suggest:
Newer space heaters have a mandatory automatic-turnoff feature should the unit tip over. Older units may not, so consider replacing them. Also, looked for worn or frayed cords.
Be sure your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors have working batteries.
Don’t use the oven, gas stove or backyard grill for home heat.
If using a generator during a power outage, it should be placed at least 20 feet from the house and the exhaust should vent away from the home.
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