"Space Heater Safety Tips"

In order to save money in the colder months, many people opt to use a space heater to heat one room rather than heat the entire structure. Regardless of your plan, it is important to be cautious. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) estimates that more than 20,000 residential fires every year are associated with the use of room (space) heaters.* 
Space Heater SelectionBefore purchasing a space heater, it is important to consider how it will be used. Will it be used for supplemental heat in colder rooms or other areas, or will it be used for emergency heat? As a general rule of thumb, electric space heaters are typically safer than portable fuel-burning models (e.g. natural gas, propane, kerosene.)
Remember to choose a unit that is listed or labeled by a nationally recognized testing laboratory such as UL (Underwriters Laboratories), CSA (Canadian Standards Association) or ETL (Intertek). This will ensure that the heater’s construction and performance meet voluntary safety standards.
Also, look for specific safety features that will shut the unit off under certain conditions. These can include:

• Overheating
• Low oxygen levels (aka oxygen depletion sensor)
• Tip-over switch
• Touch sensor (if the grill is touched)

Keep the Inside of Your Home or Business Safe with Smoke and Carbon Monoxide DetectorsTo help make your winter even safer, we recommend that you take the time to test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. A smoke detector is the most effective way to detect smoke from a fire and signal an alarm so that you and your family can get out safely. A carbon monoxide detector can alert you to the buildup of this dangerous odorless and colorless gas. Make sure you test the detectors monthly, and after you change the batteries to ensure they work properly.

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