Safety precautions when using heaters during winter

When the temperature goes down and the days become chillier, people tend to use heaters to keep themselves warm and cozy.

However, in spite of the numerous benefits of using heaters, there are also many risks associated with them, like fires or suffocations leading to death.

In a recent post in one of their social media platforms, the Ministry of Interior has clearly spelt out some safety precautions that everyone should follow when using heaters.

According to the MoI, the types of heaters that are frequently used in winter are electric heaters, gas, oil and kerosene heaters in addition to coal heaters, especially in the outdoor camps.

Those using space heaters and fireplaces shall take all safety and security measures in order to avoid any dangerous incidents.

•Keep anything that can burn at least three feet away from heating equipment such as a portable space heater, fireplace, wood-burning stove or furnace.

 The three-foot safety zone includes furniture, drapes, electronics—anything that can burn. 

•Have a three-foot “kid-free zone” around open fires and space heaters.

•Never use your oven to heat your home.

•Have a qualified professional install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters or central heating equipment according to the standard codes and manufacturer’s instructions.

•Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed.

•Do not overload extension cords or outlets and do not place an electrical cord under a rug. Dispose of older, fraying extension cords. 

•Always use only the type of fuel specified by the manufacturer for fuel burning space heaters.