As temperatures drop in Savannah, space heaters become a popular solution for staying warm. However, without proper precautions, they can pose significant fire risks. This article provides essential tips on how to use space heaters safely and what to do in case of fire damage, with professional guidance from ServiceMaster of Savannah.
ServiceMaster of Savannah is a trusted leader in disaster restoration and recovery. For a Savannah fire damage repair company, call us at (912) 244-6966 or message us online.
Each year, space heaters contribute to numerous home fires, often resulting from improper use or placement. By following specific safety guidelines, you can significantly reduce the fire risk while still enjoying your space heater’s warmth.
6 Essential Tips for Using Space Heaters
- Choose the Right Heater
- Proper Placement
- Direct Supervision
- Check for Safety Features
- Regular Maintenance
- Proper Usage
1. Choose the Right Heater
Opt for heaters with automatic shutoff features and certifications from recognized testing laboratories like UL (Underwriters Laboratories). These features ensure that the heater has passed rigorous safety standards.
2. Proper Placement
Always place space heaters on a flat, hard surface away from foot traffic. Keep the heater at least three feet away from combustible materials such as curtains, furniture, bedding, and clothing.
3. Direct Supervision
Never leave a space heater unattended. Please turn it off when you leave the room or go to sleep. Avoid using space heaters as a primary heating source overnight.
4. Check for Safety Features
Ensure your space heater has an automatic shut-off to turn the heater off if it tips over. Overheat protection is also essential, as it shuts off the heater automatically if it gets too hot.
5. Regular Maintenance
Inspect your heater for any signs of malfunction, damage, or wear. Check cords for frays or cracks; never use a heater with a damaged cord. Regularly clean and remove dust from filters and vents to maintain performance and safety.
6. Proper Usage
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Do not use outdoors or damp areas unless the heater is designed for such environments. Avoid overloading the electrical outlet where the heater is plugged in to prevent overloads.
In addition to the above tips, installing smoke alarms in your home can provide early warning in the event of a fire. Test your smoke alarms every month and replace batteries annually or as needed. Ensure your family knows the home evacuation plan if a fire breaks out.
What to Do If a Fire Occurs
Despite precautions, if a space heater fire occurs, get everyone out of the house safely and call 911. If the fire is small and contained, use a fire extinguisher to douse the flames. Only attempt this if it is safe to do so without putting yourself at risk.
Contact ServiceMaster of Savannah for Fire Damage Restoration
If your home suffers from fire damage, it’s crucial to call professionals to handle the cleanup and restoration. ServiceMaster of Savannah specializes in fire damage restoration in Savannah, GA, offering comprehensive services to restore your home to its pre-damage condition. Our trained technicians handle everything from soot and smoke removal to structural repairs and odor elimination.
For professional fire damage restoration services in Savannah, GA, and nearby areas, contact ServiceMaster of Savannah today at (912) 244-6966 or online. Our Emergency Response Team is ready to answer your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.