As the frigid winter months approach, people across the northern hemisphere are turning on their heating systems and pulling out space heaters to keep warm. However, according to firefighters, there is one crucial safety tip everyone who uses a space heater should know – you should never plug it into a power strip.
The Oregon Umatilla County Fire District 1 in Hermiston issued an urgent Facebook post warning the public about the dangers of plugging a space heater into a power strip. “You should never plug a heater into a power strip,” they cautioned. “These units are not designed to handle the high current flow needed for a space heater and can overheat or even catch fire due to the added energy flow.”
This warning quickly went viral, as thousands of people were unaware of just how hazardous this practice can be. The Toledo Fire Department in Ohio also shared a similar alert after a house fire was caused by a space heater plugged into a power strip. The intense heat from the heater ignited the couch, and the entire home was soon engulfed in flames.
Space heaters can reach temperatures up to 600 degrees Fahrenheit, making them a serious fire risk if not used properly. The Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that portable electric space heaters cause around 1,200 fires per year, often due to careless usage.
However, the Oregon firefighters emphasized that space heaters themselves are not inherently dangerous – it’s the way people use them that can become a problem. “The point comes down to proper use. Even the best equipment can fail if not used correctly. No one manufacturer is at fault, yet it’s all about the end user’s ability to use the product safely.”
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In other words, space heaters are perfectly safe when plugged directly into a wall outlet. But the high energy demands of these heating units can easily overload a power strip, causing it to overheat and potentially start a devastating fire. Firefighters strongly recommend never taking this risk.
To keep your home and family safe this winter, there are several important electrical fire prevention tips to follow:
1. Keep All Heat-Producing Appliances Unplugged When Not in Use
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This includes things like hair styling tools, electric kettles, and of course, space heaters. Any appliance that generates heat when turned on has the potential to overheat and ignite a fire if left plugged in.
2. Use Extension Cords for Temporary Use Only
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Extension cords should never be used as a permanent solution. They are meant for temporary, occasional use only. If you find that you consistently need additional outlets, it’s best to contact an electrician to install more permanent wiring in your home.
3. Keep the Third Prong
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The third prong on a power cord serves an important safety function, helping to protect against power surges and electrical malfunctions. Avoid using two-pronged outlets, and consider updating your home’s electrical system if it still has outdated wiring.
4. Update Your Electrical System
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Older homes are much more prone to electrical fires due to outdated, less advanced wiring and fuse boxes. Have an electrician evaluate your home’s electrical system and make any necessary upgrades to reduce fire risk.
5. Don’t Use Damaged Power Cords
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If a power cord is frayed, has a broken prong, or is otherwise damaged in any way, do not use it. Damaged cords can easily overheat and start a fire.
6. Follow Appliance Directions
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Manufacturers include important safety information in their product manuals, so be sure to read and follow all directions carefully. This will help you use appliances properly and avoid potential fire hazards.
7. Don’t Ignore Trouble Signs
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Be on the lookout for any warning signs that an appliance or electrical outlet may be malfunctioning, such as:
- Burn marks or discoloration around a socket or light fixture
- The appliance, power cord, or outlet feeling hot to the touch
- Burning smells while the appliance is in use
- Sparks or shocks when plugging in an appliance
- Frequently tripping breakers or blowing fuses
Make sure you have working smoke detectors in every room, so you’ll be alerted right away if something goes wrong.
As the winter cold sets in, it’s crucial that everyone who uses a space heater takes the necessary safety precautions. Plugging these high-powered heating devices into a power strip is an extremely hazardous practice that can easily lead to devastating electrical fires. By heeding the advice of firefighters and following basic electrical safety guidelines, you can stay warm and cozy all season long without putting your home and loved ones at risk. Stay safe and happy heating!
