Space heaters and wood stoves are great for warming up chilly rooms, but they should be operated with a measure of caution. According to a 2022 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) report that gathered data from 2016 to 2020, space heaters, whether portable or stationary, account for 33 percent of home heating fires. In addition, 88 percent of home heating fire civilian deaths involve space heaters. They also contribute to 80 percent of fire related injuries and 55 percent of home fire related property damage.
• Before buying a stove, check with your local fire department to get local ordinances on solid fuel burning appliances.
• Ensure that the unit has been tested and is listed with a nationally recognized testing laboratory such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL).
• Follow the specific clearance requirements outlined by the Maine Office of State Fire Marshal. Maintain proper distances between the wood stove and combustible materials, per the manufacturer and local regulations.
• If there are no manufacturer's instructions or a label on the unit, the NFPA suggests clearances should be 36 inches away from any combustible item, such as curtains or flooring.
• Regularly clean and inspect your chimney to reduce the risk of chimney fires. It's recommended to have a professional chimney sweep service to perform annual inspections and cleanings. Burn only seasoned hardwood or wood pellets in the stove, according to the manufacturer's directions.
• Wait until the ashes have cooled before removing them then transfer ashes in a covered metal container to an outside location 10 feet or more away from the home and douse them with water.
Radiant space heaters warm whatever is directly in front of them, while convection heaters can help make an entire room feel more comfortable. To use them safely, consider the following tips:
• Choose electric space heaters that are certified by recognized testing laboratories, such as UL (Underwriters Laboratories) or CSA (Canadian Standards Association). Look for models with built-in safety features like tip-over protection & overheat shut-off switches
• Regularly inspect the electric space heater for any signs of damage or wear and KEEP THEM free of dust or debris that can accumulate and potentially cause overheating.
• Keep children and pets away from the heater to help avoid contact burns.
• Place the unit on a level surface at least three (3) feet from combustible materials such as bedding, curtains and furniture.
• Plug space heaters directly into wall outlets. Avoid using extension cords or power strips, as they can overheat and pose fire hazards. Never use a space heater to dry clothing.
• Never leave an electric space heater unattended. Turn it off when leaving the room or going to sleep. Keep children and pets away from the heater to prevent accidental contact.
A kerosene space heater can warm a large area within your home. Some communities restrict their use so always check with the local authorities before purchasing or operating a unit. To operate safely, consider the following tips:
• Space heaters should be specifically designed for indoor use. They should be certified by a recognized testing laboratory, such as UL or CSA, and have safety features like an oxygen depletion sensor (ODS).
• Only use propane space heaters in well-ventilated areas. These heaters produce carbon monoxide, so ensure that there is proper airflow to prevent the buildup of this toxic gas. Never use propane space heaters indoors without proper ventilation.
• Keep children and pets away from the heater to help avoid contact burns. Never leave it unattended, especially overnight or while sleeping. Turn off the heater when leaving the room or going to sleep. Monitor the heater and ensure that it is functioning properly.
• Use only the approved fuel — clear 1-K grade kerosene, never gasoline.
• Do not refill a heater until the unit is cool and refill unit it outdoors.
• Follow the manufacturer's instructions for safely handling and storing propane fuel. Store propane cylinders outdoors in a well-ventilated area and away from ignition sources or heat.
Whether electric or wood, be sure to check that all smoke detectors are in working order with fresh batteries. It’s also advisable to install carbon monoxide detectors near sleeping areas and ensure they are in working order. Follow the manufacturer's instructions on for installation and testing for both.
Tricia Zwirner is a State Farm agent celebrating her 21st year in Windham. She and her team would love to hear from you and can be reached via phone and text at 207-892-2864 or via email at tricia@TRICIAZWIRNER.com.
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