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Use space heaters with safety in mind

  • Published
  • By 325th Civil Engineer Squadron
  • Fire Prevention Office
TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  According to a Tyndall operational climatic data summary, December, January and February are the coldest months in the northwest Florida panhandle. The temperature can dip as low as 11 degrees at night. As you take steps to warm your home or office during our coldest winter months, please be mindful of the dangers that are associated with the use of space heaters.

The National Fire Protection Association reports that home heating remains the second highest cause of fire in the home and that 79 percent of home heating fire deaths are attributed to space heaters. A recent study by the NFPA showed that in 2007, U.S. Fire Departments responded to 66,400 home structure fires involving heating equipment. These fires killed 580 people and were responsible for $608 million in property damage. According to a report, half of all fatal home space heater fires started because something was too close to the heater and ignited.

If the use of a space heater is a must, please remember that safety is paramount; ensure that its use is consistent with the manufacturers' instructions and if used on the installation, in accordance with Tyndall Air Force Base Instruction 32-2001 and Air Force Occupational Safety and Health Standard 91-501. Use of space heaters on the installation must also have the concurrence of the base energy awareness manager.

· Only use a heater with automatic tip protection, this means that the unit will turn off if knocked over.
· When selecting a heater, look for one that has been tested and certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory. These heaters have been designed to meet specific safety standards and manufacturers are required to provide important use and care information to the consumer.
· Select a space heater with a guard around the heating element. This will help keep children, pets and clothing away from the heat source.
· Place heaters at least three feet away from combustible objects such as clothing, bedding, furniture, trash receptacles and drapes. Never use heaters to dry clothes or shoes. Do not place heaters where towels or other objects could fall on the heater and start a fire.
· Plug heaters directly into wall outlets. Never use extension cords or multiple outlet strips.
· Place the heater on a non-combustible surface; avoid placement on carpets or rugs.
· Turn off and unplug space heaters when you leave the room.
· The use of space heaters in any hazardous location is prohibited.

Safe use of space heaters is not practical in a majority of the office spaces on Tyndall because their configuration does not allow for the required clearance from combustible material. In addition, the lack of available outlets usually necessitates the use of surge strips or extension cords which, of course, is not permitted.

If you have any questions concerning the safe use of space heaters in office spaces on Tyndall or in your home, please contact the Fire Prevention Office at 283-2909.