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Space heater safety

CREATED Nov. 13, 2012

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With the arrival of the recent cold snap, it's important to be safe when trying to keep warm. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission says in a recent year, there were nearly 11,000 residential fires associated with heaters.

So be sure to choose a space heater that meets the latest safety standards. Pick a space heater with a guard around the flame area or heating element.

Place the heater on a level, hard and nonflammable surface, not on rugs or carpets or near bedding or drapes. Keep the heater at least three feet from bedding, drapes, furniture, or other flammable materials. Also, never leave a space heater on when you go to sleep.