Tips on electric heater safety

As heating costs continue to rise, energy costs are on everyone's mind. Portable electric heaters can be an efficient way to warm a room or supplement central heating, but if not used properly, they can be a fire or electric shock hazard.

The Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers offers these tips for safe use.

•Read the manufacturer's instructions and warning labels.

•Do not leave an operating heater unattended and always unplug the heater when not in use.

•Do not use a heater with a power strip or extension cord.

•String out cords on top of area rugs or carpeting. Placing anything, including furniture, on top of the cord may damage it.

•Keep combustible materials such as furniture, pillows, bedding, papers, clothes, curtains, paint, gas cans and matches at least three feet from the front of the heater and away from the sides and rear.

•Unless the heater is designed for outdoor use or in bathrooms, do not use in damp or wet areas

•Check periodically for a secure plug/outlet fit.

•Unplug the heater when not in use by pulling the plug straight out from the outlet. Do not use a heater with a damaged cord.

•Do not plug any other electrical device into the same outlet.

•Heaters should be kept away from children and not be placed in a child's room without supervision.

For more safety information or to receive a copy of the free "Stay Safe!" brochure, visit www .heatersafety.org or call (888) 785SAFE (7233).

This article provided by North American Precis Syndicate Inc.