Guidelines for Space Heaters
Despite the fact that electric space heaters do not have an open flame, according to the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA), space heaters, whether portable or stationary, accounted for one-third (30%) of the home heating fires and three-fourths (73%) of home heating fire deaths in 2006. Space heaters (portable and stationary) were involved in an estimated 64,100 U.S. home structure fires, 540 civilian deaths, 1,400 civilian injuries, and $9.4 million in direct property damage.
Much of the injury and damage was caused by the heating elements used in some types of electric heaters, which are hot enough to ignite nearby combustibles such as draperies, paper, clothing, furniture, and flammable liquids. The following guidelines should be used by faculty, staff and students to ensure that they stay warm when using one, but do not violate good safety practices or fire codes.
Click here for Guidelines for Portable Space Heaters