Ottawa Fire Prevention Coordinator Kevin Theis says there are different ways to make sure space heaters are used safely. Theis say if homeowners want to purchase one, they should certified by Underwriters’ Laboratories.
He also says space heaters should be plugged in directly to an outlet, so don’t use an extension cord. He says household extension cords typically can’t handle the volts that are going through it.
Theis says space heaters should not be left unsupervised. He says kids could hurt themselves or accidentally tip a space heater over.
Theis also says make sure that the space heater being used is appropriate for the room it’s in. He says more heat from a bigger space heater is a smaller room can lead to a fire starting.