Ridge Volunteer Fire Department demonstrates how dangerous portable space heaters can be when used carelessly.                                                                    Ridge VFD photo

If you plan to use space heaters to help heat your home this winter, the Ridge Volunteer Fire Department urges you to use extreme caution.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), supplemental heating equipment, such as electrical and kerosene heaters, is the leading cause of home fires during the months of December, January and February, and trails only cooking equipment as the leading cause of home fires year-round.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) estimates that in 1994, electric space heaters were associated with 2,400 fires resulting in 80 deaths, 240 injuries, and $48.2 million in property loss.

Even though electric space heaters don’t have an open flame, the heating elements of some types of electric heaters are hot enough to ignite nearby combustibles like draperies, paper, clothing, furniture, and flammable liquids. It is important to check surrounding objects periodically to see if they feel hot.

Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions to see how far the heater should be placed from combustible materials, and for how far the heater should be placed from the floor so that carpeting or flooring materials don’t ignite. Typically, there should be at least a 3-foot safety zone between your space heater and anything that can catch fire.

Additionally, to prevent electrocutions, always keep portable electric heaters away from water, never use them in a bathroom or near a sink. (If you must use an appliance near water, always use a ground fault circuit interrupter).

The following are safety tips and precautions when using space heaters:

– Remember the 3-foot safety zone. Keep things that burn at least 3 feet away from space heaters.

– Turn off space heaters when you are not in the room or when you go to sleep.

– If you have an electric space heater, check for frayed insulation, broken wires or overheating. Have all problems repaired by a professional technician before operating.

– When buying space heaters, look for devices with automatic shut-off features and heating element guards.

– If you have a liquid-fueled space heater, use only the fuel recommended by the manufacturer. Never use gasoline or any other substitute fuel. The wrong fuel could burn hotter than the equipment’s design limits and cause a serious fire.

– When refueling, turn off the heater and let it cool down completely before adding fuel. Wipe up any spills promptly.

– If you’re considering buying a kerosene heater, check with your local fire department to find out if it is legal in your community.

– Avoid using extension cords with space heaters. If you must use one, make sure you choose an extension cord of the right wire gauge size and type for your heaters (e.g., heavy dut