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Inspect immediately
Always inspect a heater before you use it. Make sure there are no cracked or broken plugs or loose connections. Replace broken parts or the heater itself before use or get a new one.
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Not too close
Most home heating deaths happened because a space heater was too close to furniture, clothing, mattresses, or bedding. Make sure your heater is at least three feet from anything that can burn.
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Outlets only
Always plug space heaters directly into a wall outlet. Don’t use extension cords or power strips. And don’t run the cord under a rug or carpet.
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Kids and pets
Children and pets can knock over a space heater or get too close and burn themselves. Don’t put space heaters in hallways or other places kids or pets might pass by. And don’t let kids move a heater or adjust the controls.
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No liquids nearby
Never use or store flammable liquids in the same room as a space heater. And because they’re electric, don’t get near a heater when you’re wet.
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Turn it off
Always turn off your space heaters before you leave the room or go to bed. Look for models that shut off automatically when tipped over.
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