Space Heater Safety-Precautions

Tips on using space heaters

Due to the cold weather, quite a number staff members and residents are using space heaters. Though space heaters can be an effective alternative for heating, it is noteworthy to keep an eye on the following safety measures:

Keep flammable materials, such as furniture, clothing, mattresses, bedding and curtains, at least three feet away from the unit
Do not place heaters under desks or other enclosed areas.
Heaters must be monitored when in operation.
Plug heater directly into a wall receptacle. Never plug it into an extension cord.
Heaters need to be monitored daily. Those heaters missing guards, control knobs, feet, etc. must be taken out of service immediately and sent to EFU for repair/notify EFU via email or phone.
Do not use heaters in rooms that will not be continually occupied.
Keep doors and windows closed.
Keep space heaters away from exit ways, walkways and paths of travel.
Do not use space heaters in wet areas like bathrooms or kitchens.
Do not use portable space heaters if small children are expected in the area.
No open-coil space heaters are permitted in office & residential buildings.
Space heaters of any type are prohibited in laboratories.