HomeMy Public PortalAboutspace_heatersSpace Heater Fire Safety
Space Heater Fires between 2003-2007
Sixty-one (61) space heater fires were reported to the Office of the State Fire
Marshal between 2003-2007. While these fires are not frequent, they are deadly.
One of every 10 space heater fires causes a fatality. These fires caused six
civilian deaths, 10 civilian injuries, 14 fire service injuries and an estimated
dollar loss of $3 million. The average dollar loss for a space heater fire is
$48,700. Thirty percent (30%) of these fires were caused when combustible
materials such as bedding, magazines, newspapers, clothing or furniture were
too close to the heater, and another 8% were caused when rugs, carpets or mats
were under or too close the heater.
Safety Tips
If you must use a space heater for heat, use it as safely as
possible.
• When buying a heater, look for one that has been tested and
labeled by a nationally recognized testing company.
• Keep the heater three feet away from drapes, furniture or
other flammable materials. Place it on a level surface away
from areas where someone might bump it and knock it over.
• If you must use an extension cord, make sure it is a heavy
duty cord marked with a power rating at least as high as that
on the label of the heater itself.
• Never leave a space heater unattended or running while you sleep.
• Keep electric heaters away from water. Never use them near a sink or in the
bathroom.
• The sale and use of unvented kerosene heaters is illegal in Massachusetts.
FireFACTORS
Office of the State Fire Marshal
Commonwealth of Massachusetts
P.O. Box 1025, State Road • Stow, Massachusetts 01775 •978 567-3300 • www.mass.gov/dfs
DFS - Aug. '08