A chilly home or office can start to become a serious distraction during the winter months. A space heater could warm that area up quickly, but you have to be very careful when you use these devices, especially if you want to heat a small room or cubicle space.
Space Heaters Cause Fires
According to the National Fire Protection Association, space heaters were responsible for 32 percent of fires caused by home heating equipment between 2005 and 2009. To make matters even worst, 79 percent of heating fires that killed someone were started by space heaters.
These statistics should make you reconsider whether you really want to plug in a space heater at home, your office, or your cubicle. You could get much more warmth than you need.
Reducing the Risk of Fire
If you can tolerate the risk of burning your feet, then you can at least try to reduce the risk of starting a fire.
You'd think that people would pay more attention when using potentially deadly devices, but the numbers don't lie. People die from space heaters every year.
You can reduce the risk of fire by only using the space heater in a clean area that does not have any flammable materials. Make sure you plug the heater directly in an outlet. If you have to use an extension cord to reach the outlet, then you'll either have to find a way to move closer to the outlet or put up with chilly feet.
Remember, you put everyone at risk when you use a space heater. The least you can do is act as responsibly as possible so no one gets hurt.
If you have been injured in a fire on the job, you may have the right to workers compensation benefits. Consult with our legal team by calling us toll free at 888-799-3918 or by using our online contact form.
