Prevention 52 fire helmet
September 2012

TAKE ACTION! 

 

1) Ensure your space heater is plugged directly into an outlet, not an extension cord or power strip. 

 

2)  Ensure smoke detectors are installed and working before using space heaters. If you use fuel-burning space heaters, install carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home, in or near the bedrooms.

 

3)  Shut off your space heater before going to bed or leaving.

NPS Fire Facts 

I've worked in multiple parks where the use of space heaters is a common occurrence. Since many park offices and residences are located in older buildings that are inadequately heated, space heaters are heavily relied upon for additional warmth. I used one myself in a government house when my youngest was born. Her bedroom was freezing in the winter and I was so worried that she'd catch a chill.

 

Unfortunately, space heaters are often used incorrectly, under paper cluttered desks, near cardboard boxes, and with extension cords. Stationary or portable units are often used in chilly maintenance areas where saw dust and flammable materials are nearby. They are left on when employees walk away from their desks. It's a good idea to be aware of space heater fire safety and correct problems in your workplace to protect your coworkers this heating season. 

What is Prevention 52?

 

Its intent is to educate and empower all NPS employees to help prevent structural fires.

 

It is a relevant fire prevention message every week of the year...

52 to be exact!

 

You have an opportunity every week to make a difference!
Don't let historic ashes be your legacy...
Prevention 52 begins with you! 
The Structural Fire Program has put together many resources to help you provide an effective fire prevention program in your park.
 
Visit our web site at :
For more fire prevention resources go to:

 

Previous P52 messages can be accessed at:

Prevention 52

 

Submit your ideas and feedback about Prevention 52 to: [email protected]

 

P52 Editor: Kathy Komatz

 

Structural Fire is one of six branches within the NPS Division of Fire and Aviation Management. Join us at: www.nps.gov/fire to learn more.

Space Heater
 
No Time to Space Out!
Roberta M. Gorman, Structural Fire Program Assistant  
 
Fall is officially upon us, and though winter is still months away, many folks in cooler climates are already turning on the heat; and it never fails that almost every home has one room colder than the rest, sometimes needing extra heating help. Here is where a space heater comes in handy.

 

Portable and stationary space heaters offer warm, cozy heat wherever and whenever you need it, often at a cost savings. There are many types like convection, ceramic, or radiant heaters, heater fans, oil radiators, and fuel burning space heaters. However, using space heaters require extra safety considerations, since 1/3 of all home heating fires and 4 out of 5 fire deaths are caused by space heaters.

 

To keep you family and coworkers safe, follow these important safety precautions with all space heaters:

  • Place the heater on a solid, flat surface to minimize the risk of tipping.
  • Keep the unit 3 feet away from anything that can burn, like papers, mattresses, drapes, and bedding.
  • Have a 3-foot "kid-free zone" around space heaters.
  • Don't place heaters under desks or other enclosed areas.
  • Keep heaters away from exits, walkways, and other paths of travel.
  • Ensure the space heater you want to use is allowed in your park or local community; some kerosene heaters are not allowed in certain areas.
  • Turn portable heaters off when leaving a room or going to bed.
  • Install stationary space heaters, according to local codes and manufacturer's instructions, preferably by a qualified professional.
  • Use only UL listed units.

 

Considerations for Electric Space Heaters: 

  • Do not use automatic timers to turn the heater off.
  • Plug power cords into outlets with a sufficient capacity for the unit and never into an extension cord.
  • Use portable space heaters with an automatic shut-off, so they will turn off if accidentally tipped by the family dog.
  • Consider investing in a heater that has a proximity sensor, which will turn the heater off if objects are too close to the unit.
  • Do not use the unit in wet areas, such as bathrooms and kitchens.

 

Considerations for Fuel Burning Space Heaters: 

  • Make sure stationary heaters are vented to the outside and that the exhaust vent is kept clear of obstructions. When using portable heaters, open a window to adequately vent the room.
  • Use the proper type and grade of fuel in the unit, as directed by the manufacturer. Gasoline used in the wrong units will cause the heater to burn hotter than it was originally designed.
  • Before refueling, allow the appliance to cool completely and refuel the unit outside or in a well-ventilated area.
  • Ensure your space heater is a newer unit with an oxygen depletion sensor. The sensor detects a reduced level of oxygen in the area where the heater is operating and automatically shuts the heater off before a hazardous level of carbon monoxide accumulates.

JUST FOR YOU

 

Employees

Check out the National Fire Protection Association's Heating Safety Talking Points to learn more about home heating fire safety.

  

Watch this recent video from Consumer Reports.org on the Optimus H-5210 space heater and see why this may be a dangerous buy for your home this winter.

 

Also, check SaferProducts.gov to see if your current space heater is on a recall list.

 

Park Leadership

Set guidelines for the use of space heaters in government quarters and office areas; be clear about the types of units that are allowed and in what circumstances. Ensure employees know the guidelines and spot check areas throughout the winter to ensure the heaters are in compliance with park requirements.

Join us on InsideNPS for Fire Prevention Week 2012!
There will be engaging stories and videos, compelling safety messages, and more...look for it October 9-12. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

Sincerely,

 

NPS Branch of Structural Fire