September 26, 2002

Space Heaters Raise Safety Concerns

Some homeowners are pulling out their space heaters in anticipation of cooler temperatures this fall and winter. "People need to be careful because space heaters can be dangerous," according to George Maher, agricultural safety specialist for the North Dakota State University Extension Service. "Not being careful can have tragic results."

Every space heater that burns a fuel requires an adequate supply of combustion air. Oxygen is always consumed when any fuel is burned. "It is usually very difficult to supply enough fresh, oxygen-laden air for a space heater without losing the heat that is produced," Maher says. "Most homes today have been sealed and caulked up too tightly to allow enough fresh air to infiltrate. Not everyone can depend on air that seeps in through windows and doors for the safe use of a space heater."

Carbon monoxide, a deadly, odorless, colorless gas, is also produced whenever a fuel is burned. Always have a carbon monoxide detector in place when a space heater is used.

The process of refueling space heaters is dangerous, too. All space heaters should be shut off and allowed to cool before refilling with fuel, Maher says. Even propane space heaters should always be turned off and allowed to cool before fuel containers are replaced. A glowing hot element in the heater will easily ignite propane vapors. There is no safe way to pour kerosene into the tank of a space heater while it is operating. Just a small splash of kerosene on the hot heater will instantly cause a serious fire.

Most space heaters are taller than they are wide, making them easy to tip over. Kerosene-fueled space heaters will spill their fuel and cause a fire. Tipped propane tanks will not spill, but the surging propane can cause a dangerous and sudden flair-up which could ignite near-by combustibles. Always locate space heaters away from traffic patterns where they are likely to be knocked over.

Electric space heaters can also be dangerous, according to Maher. "A safe product design will not allow the hot electrical element to come in contact with combustible materials when the heater is tipped over. Newer units have an automatic shut off feature to prevent problems. When the space heater is old and used past its time, there is also the possibility of electric shock. Some electric space heaters can cause accidental burns when touched because they may have surfaces that get very hot."

Most space heaters have hot outside surfaces which can be dangerous for toddlers and youngsters who do not really understand "hot" and "don’t touch." Heaters also pose a threat with combustible materials in the home. They should never be very close to the heater.

"Some consumers believe it is cheaper to use a space heater for warming a chilly room, when actually a few, very low-cost, home improvements could be the solution, Maher says. "Improving the weather-stripping around windows and doors should be considered before using a space heater. Windows should be covered with plastic film. Even temporary weatherstripping can make a noticeable difference. However, if a space heater must be used, be sure to read and follow the instructions and keep the fire department phone number handy. Always practice safety to avoid burns, fires and possibly the loss of a home."

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Source: George Maher, (701) 231-8288, gmaher@ndsuext.nodak.edu
Editor: Rich Mattern, (701) 231-6136, richard.mattern@ndsu.nodak.edu

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