- Wall outlet only. Plug your heater directly into a dedicated wall socket. Household wiring is designed to handle the heater’s load, unlike flimsy cords on strips.
- Three-foot rule. Keep heaters at least three feet away from anything flammable—curtains, bedding, furniture, or laundry. Heat can ignite materials faster than you realize.
- Stable surface. Always place heaters on level, hard surfaces. Avoid carpets, tables, or uneven furniture. Even tip-over sensors aren’t failproof.
- Supervise use. Never leave a heater running unattended or while sleeping. Fires that start at night often have catastrophic consequences.
Space heaters are just one piece of a bigger electrical safety puzzle. Other high-heat devices—electric kettles, toasters, curling irons—should be unplugged when not in use. Extension cords should never replace permanent wiring. And never tamper with grounding prongs—they’re there to prevent shock and fire.
This winter, take the extra time to ensure your home is safe. Move furniture, reach a proper wall outlet, and follow the fire department’s guidance. Space heaters can save you from the cold—but only if used correctly.
💡 Stay safe this winter: Share this article with friends and family so they don’t make a life-threatening mistake with their space heater.