• Space heaters can be quite beneficial in providing warmth and comfort during the winter months. Indeed, they are valuable appliances and many individuals choose to purchase them. Nevertheless, they can pose significant fire risks if proper safety measures are not observed while operating them.
• Here is how you can use your space heater to prevent any unfortunate incidents.
• Avoid flammable objects

You may be surprised to discover how many everyday household items in your home are flammable.

● Hand sanitizers rank among the most frequently used products in today’s society. However, they are highly flammable and can easily ignite if left near a space heater.
● The same applies to nail polishes and nail polish removers, which contain a highly flammable solvent. Therefore, always ensure your heater is not placed near your dressing table.
● Various aerosols contain hydrocarbons that are extremely flammable. They can ignite if sprayed near a heater. This category includes body sprays, mosquito repellents, cockroach repellents, and even cosmetic items.
● Plastic containers are everyday items that we all frequently use. These plastic containers are also prone to catching fire when exposed to the intense heat from your space heater.
● Naphthalene is another substance that is highly combustible. Many people use naphthalene balls or mothballs to deter pests and moths from their closets. Thus, it’s advisable to check for naphthalene balls nearby your space heater.
● Snacks like potato chips and cheese puffs should also be maintained at a safe distance from your space heater.

Never leave a heater unattended

The most dangerous action to take with a space heater is to leave it on in an unoccupied room. In these instances, you have no control over what might accidentally come into contact with your heater. This situation can lead to fire incidents that can rapidly escalate beyond your control.
Even while you are sleeping, do not leave your space heater running. There is a risk that fabric in your room may come into contact with the heater and ignite. Or, a flammable object could catch fire while you sleep. For this reason, ensure to operate your heater an hour prior to going to bed. This way, your room will be warm, and you won’t have to take any risks.

Place it in a safe space

Always set your space heater on a stable and flat surface where it is least likely to be overturned. Avoid positioning it in pathways where you may inadvertently brush against the heater. Some advanced space heaters come with a safety switch that automatically turns off the device if it is knocked over. Always verify the safety features of your heater prior to purchasing one.
Additionally, ensure that the heater is positioned in a location where it cannot be accessed by children. If kids place their hands anywhere near or inside the heater, this could lead to serious burns.

Plug the heater directly into an outlet.

Space heaters are potent devices that utilize a significant amount of electricity. Connecting them to an extension cord may potentially lead to a short circuit and fire in the home. To prevent this, always connect your heater straight into a wall outlet.

Conclusion

In the chilly winter months, space heaters provide essential warmth. However, a bit of negligence can lead to irreparable harm. This is the reason you must use appliances like a space heater with utmost care. Yet, no level of precautions can completely remove the risk of damage. Therefore, you should always be equipped with a home insurance plan.
HDFC ERGO offers various home insurance plans for you to explore. For a particular premium you pay, the insurance provider will offer coverage for any losses or damages to your home and the appliances within it. You can also select from a wide range of add-on coverages if you find your base plan unsatisfactory. With a straightforward application process and minimal documentation requirements, HDFC ERGO can assist you in securing your home with the perfect home insurance policy.

Disclaimer:

• The above information serves illustrative purposes only. For additional information, please consult policy wordings and prospectus before making any sales decisions.