Space Heater Safety Tips

Although space heaters can provide warmth and comfort when the main heating system is inadequate or when operating or installing a central heating system is just too costly, consumers should be aware that there are hazards associated with operating any type of space heater, such as fires or burns caused by contact or close proximity to the heating element; fires and explosions caused by flammable fuels or defective wiring, indoor air pollution caused by improper venting; or even carbon monoxide poisoning. As such, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has published the following general safety guidelines for using a space heater:

1. Equip your home with at least one smoke alarm on each floor and outside sleeping areas.
2. Have at least one dry-powder, ABC-type fire extinguisher available at all times.
3. Install a CO alarm.
4. Keep areas around heat sources free of trash, debris, and paper.
5. Store paints, solvents, and other flammable liquids away from heat and ignition sources.
6. Have annual safety checks performed on all home heating equipment.
7. Develop a fire escape plan before a fire occurs, and ensure that all household occupants understand the plan and are able to carry it out in the case of emergency.
8. If clothing catches on fire, the Safety Commission also advises one to drop down immediately, cover the face with hands, and roll to smother the flames.

Winterizing Your Home Saves You Money and Reduces Greenhouse Gases

Winter has just begun and energy costs are on the rise. The average American household spends up to $2000 annually on energy bills, and some have speculated that this number may even go up by almost 50% this year. Therefore, taking a few small steps now in reducing energy use can make a big difference in lowering your energy bills and even reducing the amount of greenhouse gas emissions.

One of the first and foremost steps in winterizing a home is to stop air leaks in a home. If air leaks aren't stopped, other weatherizing measures like installing insulation will be a complete waste of money and effort. By sealing holes, cracks, and openings in your home first, you can stop the flow of heat through your walls and ceilings, and also cost-effectively reduce energy bills, avoid potential moisture problems, and perhaps most importantly, stay warm this winter. With this in mind, here are few helpful tips published by the Environmental Protection Agency on how to seal your home:

1. Be sure to insulate and weather-strip your attic hatch or door to prevent warm air from escaping out of the top of your house.
2. Holes leading from a basement or crawlspace to an attic are a huge energy waster. Be sure to cover and seal them with spray foam and rigid foam board if necessary, and don’t forget to seal any holes in the attic that lead into a house.
3. Seal holes with caulk or spray foam where wires, pipes, and vents enter or exit your home, and be sure to check behind and under sinks.
4. Caulk window frames and door frames inside your home with clear or color-matched caulk to reduce drafts. If caulking an area outside of a home, use long-lasting exterior caulk.
5. Reduce any drafts in your home by putting foam gaskets around electrical outlets, and weather-strip doors and windows that do not seal tightly.