WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio -- NOTE: This article deals with the use of space heaters in the home not with the use of space heaters in an office environment. Wright-Patterson Air Force Base Instruction 32-2001, FIRE PREVENTION PROGRAM, paragraph 22.8 reads: "Personal electrical space heaters are not authorized for use at WPAFB without the specific approval as outlined in the WPAFB Energy Policy."

The high cost of heating oil and natural gas combined with the efforts to save energy, raises the potential for increased use of alternative heating sources. Space heaters and other supplemental heating devices may be viewed by a lot of people as a good alternative. Space heaters can be handy when used properly and sparingly, but they should never be viewed as a long-term solution. Space heaters are not highly efficient and have significant fire and safety hazards.

Safety must be a top consideration when using space heaters. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates that more than 25,000 residential fires every year are associated with the use of space heaters, causing more than 300 deaths. An estimated 6,000 persons receive hospital emergency room care for burn injuries associated with contacting hot surfaces of room heaters, mostly in non-fire situations.

Tips from the Underwriters Laboratories (UL):
› Keep all space heaters at least 3 feet away from household combustibles.
› Use space heaters only as a supplementary source of heat.
› Do not use extension cords with space heaters unless absolutely necessary.
› Inspect the heater's cord periodically to look for frayed wire or damaged insulation. Do not use a space heater with a damaged cord.
› Check periodically for a secure plug/outlet fit. If the plug becomes very hot, the outlet may need to be replaced by a qualified technician. This could be the sign of a potential home wiring issue.  
› Heaters should be placed on a flat, level surface. Do not place heaters on furniture since they may fall and become damaged or break parts in the heater.
› Unless the heater is designed for use outdoors or in bathrooms, do not use in damp, wet areas.
› Look for the UL mark on your electric heater. This means representative samples of the appliance have met UL's stringent safety standards.
› If you have a liquid-fueled space heater, use only the fuel recommended by the manufacturer. The wrong fuel could burn hotter than the equipment was designed for and cause a serious fire.
› When refueling, turn off the heater and let it cool down completely before adding fuel. Wipe away any spills promptly.
› Before you buy a kerosene heater, check with your local fire department to ensure that it is legal.