When the weather changes in New England and winter is here, many homeowners rely on electrical devices to keep their homes warm and bright. Although your home seems cozy, many portable heating units pose fire hazards if safety hazards aren’t paid attention to. Many home fires involve space heaters, so it is extra important to follow these safety precautions to stay safe this winter. 

1. Keep Flammable Items Away From Heating Sources

The rule of thumb for keeping flammable items away from heating equipment, such as space heaters, wood stoves, fireplaces, etc., is having 3 3-foot perimeter around any heat source. This will prevent any damage to items and keep children and pets at home safe. 

2. Never Leave Heaters Unattended 

When you leave your home or even a room you don’t plan on going back to for a few hours, it is best to turn off and unplug portable heating units. When you go to bed and aren’t supervising, it is also best to unplug these while you cannot monitor them, so they do not overheat. 

3. Don’t overload electrical outlets 

It is important not to overload your outlets with too many high-wattage units. There should be only one high-power heater plugged into each outlet. Homeowners are prone to overloaded outlets, which can cause many electrical issues. Especially during the holidays with many Christmas lights and decorations, make sure you monitor what is plugged in to avoid any issues.  

4. Don’t Use Power Strips to Plug in Space Heaters

Looking for the safest way to use your space heater this winter? The safest way is to use a wall outlet with no other items plugged into the outlet. This is the best way because power strips and extension cords are not equipped to handle the high electrical current that space heaters use. If you use a power strip, it could start a fire or melt and burn the cord. 

5. Make sure outlets and Power Strips Have Safe Placement

Lastly, when using power strips or extension cords, it is important to make sure their placement is safe so there is no way they could catch fire. Covering cords with rugs or behind furniture may seem like a good idea, so you can’t see them, but they are actually a fire hazard. Keeping them free of things covering them is the safest way. 

Contact Ellowitz Electric 

Following these safety tips will help keep you and your family safe during the winter months. If you are having issues with your home’s electrical system, call a professional electrician to make sure no further damage can occur. The electrical technicians at Ellowitz Electric are equipped with the tools to make sure your electrical system is as good as new. Contact us today by filling out our contact form or giving us a call at 508-340-1340.