Keep Warm without the Worries - Media Statement
[ Last Updated 9 March 2006 ]
In colder weather, we reply on heaters to keep us warm. Heaters can also be a cause of fires. It's important to use these in a safe manner to avoid any risk of injury to yourself, your family or your property. The Ministry of Consumer Affairs' Energy Safety Service has some simple safety tips to make sure that you stay warm and safe.
Firstly, always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Always unplug your heater when it's not being used.
Only use the heater for what it has been designed for. Don't use it as a clothes dryer unless it has been specifically designed for that purpose. And then, make sure you hang the clothes on the appropriate drying racks and keep them at a safe distance.
Never place your heater close to curtains or other flammable material. Keep it at least one metre away. Heat can build up quickly to the point where curtains and furnishings can ignite. Don't turn heaters to face walls or furnishings as they could later be turned on by mistake. Remember, some heaters have thermostats that automatically turn themselves on as the room gets cold.
Particularly with older heaters, check for anything broken or missing and signs of scorching, melting or blistering. Listen for any unusual noises or sounds. The smell of smoke or fumes suggest the heater is overloading or overheating. Always recognise that a 'tingle' or slight shock is a warning – don't use the appliance without having it properly checked. If necessary, consult a qualified service person. The cost of repair or replacement of your heater is small compared to the price you might pay for the damage caused by a fire.
Take extra safety precautions with young children. Don't leave a child alone with a heater, even for a short time. Be careful they don't 'post' paper or other flammable materials into the heater, regardless of whether it is off or on. Don’t let small children touch the heater, sit too close to it or play with its switches.
Remember to periodically clean your heater, especially fan heaters. Switch the heater off and unplug it, run the vacuum cleaner over the inlet and outlet grills to remove any dust and lint. Don't dismantle the heater for cleaning.
Don't attempt to modify your heater in any way or poke anything into it. If something falls into your heater unplug it immediately and carefully remove the object. When not in use, store heaters in a dust-free place. Don't forget to protect the power cord from damage.
Don't use gas heaters in bedrooms or bathrooms as adequate ventilation can't be assured and safe operation of the heater can’t be checked while people are asleep. Gas heaters should be serviced by a licensed gasfitter.
Back to Top