As most of the country is recovering from the bitter cold front that blew across the nation last week, it seems a timely reminder about the use of supplemental heating sources to warm your home. Unfortunately many families are forced to make tough decisions with the cost of heating in the current economy. Many of these people may try to cut costs by using alternative heating such as space heaters. While these units can be an inexpensive way to take the chill off, they also represent certain hazards that you should be aware of. Keep your family safe and warm by becoming familiar with the following facts about space heaters.

Understand what space heaters are intended for and use them accordingly.

Before you consider using a space heater as an alternative source of heat you should understand that space heaters are just that; a self contained, free standing air heating unit designed to heat the space in which it stands. These units are not intended to be used as a sole source of heat, nor attached to any duct work to heat other areas of the home.

Hazards of space heaters.

Consumers should be aware of the following hazards associated with gas, wood, kerosene and electric space heaters.

• Fires or burns from contact with the flame, hot surface area or heating element.

• Explosions or fires caused by defective wiring or flammable fuels.

• Indoor air pollution or carbon monoxide poisoning caused by improper venting of fuel burning equipment.

Tips to safely use space heaters.

• Never use gasoline in a kerosene heater. Kerosene should be stored in a separate container as even the residual amount of gasoline in a container can increase the flammability of kerosene.

• Refuel kerosene heaters outdoors and never fill beyond the “full” mark as fuel expands as it gets warm and could spill out of the heater.

• Use heaters on the floor only; do not place on furniture or any other unstable surface where the heater could possibly tip over causing a fire.

• For electric heaters do not hide cords under carpet or rugs; this can cause the cord to overheat.

• Wood burning heaters must meet EPA emissions requirements and should be installed in accordance to existing building codes and manufacturers instructions.

• Chimney and stove pipes should be cleaned annually and checked during the heating season for creosote build-up.

• Gas space heaters should always be professionally installed and inspected per local codes. Ideally you should use a gas space heater that is equipped with an oxygen depletion sensor which enables the machine to turn off if it sensed a reduced level of oxygen, which can prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

Space heaters can be a useful tool in helping to heat your house in the winter, but only if they are used safely and with knowledge of the possible hazards. Unfortunately many people do not heed the safety warnings on these devices and the result can be devastating, either through loss of life or property.

Alternative Heating-Stay Safe While You Stay Warm was created by and is property of American Consumer News.