Portable Space Heater Safety
Portable electric space heaters provide supplemental heat in our homes and workplaces. Fires due to space heaters usually involve them not having adequate safety features; placing them near combustibles; and not properly plugging them in.
To decrease the risk of fire resulting from the misuse of portable heaters, follow the guidelines below before selecting and using a portable electric space heater.
- Buy your heater from reputable sources and retail outlets.
- Ensure the heater has the approval mark of an accredited certification agency (it will be on the label or description).
- The approval mark proves the heater was tested, and meets the required safety standards. View a complete list of marks on this page.
- Ensure cords and heaters are in good condition, and not damaged.
- Do not overload circuits by plugging in too many electrical products into one outlet.
Placement of portable electric heaters:
- Place heaters a minimum of 3 feet away from any combustible materials (e.g. curtains, paper, rugs, cloth, etc.).
- Do not run heater cords under carpets, rugs or furniture.
- Locate space heaters out of high traffic areas and doorways where they can pose a tripping hazard.
- Plug space heaters directly into a wall outlet. Do not use an extension cord or power strip,
- Turn off the heater when you’re not using it and when you go out.