Wow, temperatures sure are chilly in Indianapolis now! Many of us are looking for ways to stay warm, whether it be wearing wool socks or turning up the heat. This time of year, many people break out electric space heaters and electric blankets to keep warm and cozy. While using these devices this winter, it’s important to use them safely. Follow these guidelines for electric blanket use and space heater safety,
and keep these tips in mind when it comes time to plug in.
How to Safely Use a Space Heater
- Plug it in properly. When using a space heater, make sure to plug it in directly to a wall outlet. Inspect
the unit, cord, and plug for damage before using it. Make sure the plug fits snug in the outlet. It may be tempting to use an extension cord or multiple outlet adapter, but doing so can cause problems. Space heaters use more wattage than some standard extension cords are designed to handle.
- Consider the circuit. Because they require so much power, you may find that using your space heater causes the circuit breaker to trip. Most of the outlets in living rooms
and bedrooms are likely 15-amp or 20-amp circuits, which can handle powering small appliances and lamps. Adding a space heater to the mix can overpower the circuit, especially if other devices are on the same circuit. Try finding a plug on a different circuit without other electric devices plugged in, or adding a dedicated circuit for your space heater.
- Keep
the surrounding area clear. When using a space heater, keep the area around it free and clear to prevent items from catching fire. Try to keep a 3-foot area clear at the least. Curtains, blankets, papers, and other flammable objects should be kept away from your space heater. Also, place the space heater in an area where it won’t be knocked over, so it won’t trip people or pets.
- Never leave a space heater on unattended. Keep children and pets away from
a space heater to prevent burns, because its exterior can get very hot to the touch. It’s best to turn off and unplug when you are not using your space heater.
- Make sure your space heater is approved for the area you intend to use it in. If you want to use a space heater in wet areas, like bathrooms, make sure you’ve got one that is designed for a wet environment to reduce the risk of electrical shock.
How to Safely Use an Electric Blanket
- Inspect for damage. Electric blankets and heating pads don’t use as much energy as a space heater, but you should still inspect these items before using them. Make sure there is no damage to the cord, plug, or the blanket itself.
- Treat your blanket with care during use. While you’ll typically use them in bed or while curled up on the couch, don’t place items on top of the electric blanket when in use. Also, you shouldn’t fold an electric
blanket when in use.
- Electric blankets should be used as a covering only. Never use heating pads between your body and the mattress, couch, or chair to prevent dangerous overheating.
- Never use a damp electric blanket. If your electric blanket is washable, make sure it is completely dry before you plug it in to use; otherwise, you risk electrical shock.
- Never use an electric blanket while you sleep. If you're asleep, you won't be aware if temperatures start getting too hot and you could risk a serious burn.
Frye Electric wants you to stay safe and comfortable this winter. If you have a space heater that’s giving you trouble, contact us today and we can plan a solution to keep your circuit breaker from tripping when you’re trying to stay warm. If you have any questions about the safe use of electrical products in your home, we’d be happy to answer them.
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Heating Pad Fires
Heating Pad Fireswebadmin2017-01-20T16:14:36+00:00
Basics of Heating Pad Fires
According to some sources, over 12,000 people are injured in home fires each year—and over 2,000 people die each year in home fires. Fires start from a variety of sources, and a number of them can be caused by using electric heating pads.
You may not realize it when you use an electric heating pad for sore muscles—to ease an aching back, neck, or shoulder—that it poses a risk. But it can start a fire if not used properly. What are some causes of heating pad fires?
Heating pad fires can be caused by many different things.
In general, older models of electric heating pads are much less safe than are newer models and are more likely to result in a house fire.
Older models may lack an automatic shutoff, allowing the pad to overheat and start a fire.
Older models may lack various temperature settings, remaining on “high” any time they are used. This can start a fire.
Older models may just be worn out and cause a short circuit that starts a fire.
Mechanical Causes of Heating Pad Fires
Before using a heating pad, conduct a thorough physical check to be sure it looks trustworthy. If your heating pad exhibits any of these traits, using it could result in a fire.
Frayed wires.
Holes in the fabric.
Sparking from the wiring, plug, or outlet.
An improperly functioning on/off switch or temperature control.
Lack of automatic shutoff.
Other Potential Causes of Heating Pad Fires
Sometimes consumers are not fully aware of the proper use of heating pads, and fires result. What are some mistakes users make that can result in fires?
Be sure to plug the heating pad in properly. Avoid forcing a three-prong plug into a two-prong outlet (or removing the third prong to make it fit).
Avoid plugging multiple electrical devices into an extension cord and potentially overloading it.
You should never sleep with a heating pad, even if it is equipped with an automatic shutoff.
You should not use a heating pad near a water source, such as in the bathroom. Electrocution is a very real risk, and a house fire could also result.
You should not use it around flammable objects, including plastic mattress or pillow covers.
Elderly people, especially those who are unable to remove the pad if it becomes too hot, should avoid using heating pads.
Those who suffer from neuralgia or other conditions that result in numbness or tingling in the extremities may not only receive burns from leaving a heating pad on too long, but may actually end up causing a fire.
Heating pads should never be used on small children or infants. A tragic fire could result.
Using a heating pad after drinking alcohol or taking medications that cause excessive drowsiness can result in a fire.
And remember, when the pad is not in use, it should always be unplugged.
Have you had a fire in your home as a result of using an electric heating pad? Please call us today to talk with a personal injury lawyer. You can reach us by email or phone at (720) 420-9800.