Brrr! It's COLD! Be smart about using space heaters!

11/12/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Glenview at 847-832-9300

Fire does not follow a schedule, it doesn't care what season it is or whether it's cold outside. Fires are extremely common in the winter, because folks are trying hard to stay warm.

As we begin this winter season, SERVPRO of Glenview would like to provide you with some tips to avoid having to deal with the destructive aftermath of fire damage.

Our technicians understand that accidents happen. Using the wrong type of heater in a particular area can cause severe problems, as can placing space heaters too close to other objects.  To avoid setting up factors in your home which could lead to fire, consider the type and location of heater you purchase to use in your home.

Electric heaters are the most popular type of heaters customers purchase and they are available in a variety of shapes and sizes. Electric space heaters can be useful in many areas of your home; however, they should never be left unattended. Thinking of electric heaters as giant toasters can help you understand how important it is to keep a constant eye on them. Make sure you have sufficient wattage to run the heating device without tripping the circuit. Always plug the heater directly into an outlet - NEVER use an extension cord. Also - never use an electric heater in a wet or moist environment, such as your bathroom.

Oil heaters should be used where there is the possibility of moisture. This eliminates any electrical hazards that may be present due to water conductivity. Always keep a safe distance once the heater is running to avoid contact burns.

SERVPRO gets an incredible number of calls relating space heaters every winter. People are trying to stay warm and use heaters as their source of heat. However, using a space heater does not need to cause so many problems during a cold spell. Use common sense and always follow the directions of the manufacturer.

Our professional technicians have the following simple guidelines to follow when operating your space heater:

1. Always place space heaters on a dry, flat, solid surface for stabilization. Do not place on thick carpeting or other flammable surface.
2. Purchase heaters with an automatic shut-off feature to prevent dangers which may occur from tipping.
3. Maintain proper spacing between heaters and other objects in your home. Pay very close attention to the proximity between the heater and soft, flammable objects such as furniture including couches, chairs, beds, bedding, blankets, pillows, clothing, and even pet peds.
4. Never leave children or pets unsupervised around operating heaters.
5. Shut your heaters off properly before leaving your home or going to sleep. If you must use a heater at night, set it on a timer to turn off after a short time.

Following these guidelines does not guarantee that you will never have to deal with fire damage from space heaters. However, you are much less likely to have such a destructive an unwanted consequence. If this sort of incident still strikes your home or business this winter season, make the call to our office immediately. We will respond quickly and provide you with the services you need to get your life back to normal fast.

Call SERVPRO of Glenview at 847-832-9300