Safety Reminder: Portable Space Heaters
 
By EMT Ken Sterner
 

Space heaters can be a common fixture at home and in the workplace during the colder months, and when used correctly, they can provide warm relief. If you plan on using one during the cold days and weeks ahead, please make sure the following describes the space heater you will be using.

• Approved by an OSHA recognized laboratory (UL tag).
• Located in areas free of combustibles.
• Equipped with a tip-over switch (automatic shut-off when not upright).
• Not used with extension cords.
• Not being used with missing or broken parts (such as nobs, grills, or stands).
• Thermostatically controlled to avoid wasting energy or overheating.
• Turned off AND unplugged when leaving the area.
• Not used if the heater causes a circuit breaker to trip or fuse to blow.
• Not located where it can cause someone to trip.
• Has a minimum clearance of 36 inches around the heater (front, back and rear).

Stay Warm but Stay Safe!