According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), space heaters account for more than 43% of home fires and 85% of home heating fire deaths in the U.S. More than half of these (53%) resulted from a fire where heating appliances were too close to combustible material. When used improperly, space heaters can be a fire threat to houses, offices, warehouses, and industrial spaces.

Risk Elimination The best course of action is to discontinue the use of portable electric space heaters and use a stationary heat source installed by a qualified professional. By eliminating the source, you eliminate the fire hazard all together. This offers the best protection possible. Types There are many types of portable electric space heaters, some of which are more dangerous than others. For example, fan-forced heaters have a fan that blows air over hot metal coils, distributing heat. Open coil heaters are particularly dangerous, as they can significantly increase the risk of fire. Ceramic heaters have a ceramic heating element over which air is warmed to create heat. These are preferred over other types, as they generally create the lowest risk of fire. Other, less common space heaters include oil or water-filled radiators. They have heated oil or water that travels through the heater, creating radiant heat. Infrared heaters have bulbs that produce heat. Whatever you choose, be sure that you follow the manufacturer recommendations and that the space heater has the following: • A seal indicating that it is listed by a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL) such as UL, FM, CSA, etc.