Prevent Injuries and Deaths from Improper Heating Unit Use
Deaths and injuries from the careless use and improper installation of heating units can be prevented! Follow these basic rules to avoid the risk of personal injury or property loss.
Consult a heating expert to help you choose the safest, most efficient, and economical unit for your home.
Never install your own heating system. Leave installation to a qualified technician.
When buying a new home, have a specialist inspect the heating system. Replacing a furnace or installing new wiring can be costly.
Solid Fuel Heating
Solid fuel heating systems use wood, coal, or fuel pellets.
Choose the right-sized unit for your needs. Select a heating unit that matches the size of the space you want to heat.
Position the unit correctly, ensuring proper clearance as specified by the manufacturer.
Install the unit near a chimney for optimal ventilation.
Electric Heating
Electric heating includes baseboard, portable, and forced-air systems.
Keep curtains clear of electric baseboard heaters.
Use portable electric heaters only as supplementary heating for small areas.
Maintain the units properly. Frayed cords and loose plugs can cause fires.
Do not remove the third prong from a three-prong plug or bend it back to fit a two-prong outlet. The third prong is essential for grounding the appliance.
Never use extension cords with electric heaters or major appliances.
Liquid Fuel Heating
Liquid fuels include oil, waste oil, and kerosene. Oil furnaces and oil-fired space heaters pose specific hazards.
Store fuel in an approved container or tank.
Have your furnace serviced regularly by a qualified technician to ensure efficient and safe operation.
Inspect ventilation systems regularly for oil-fueled units.
Do not install waste oil heaters in residential buildings. These are designed for commercial use.
Supervise kerosene heaters at all times. They pose risks to children and pets.
Use only the recommended fuel for kerosene heaters, as specified by the manufacturer.
Never refuel a kerosene heater indoors or while the unit is hot.
Gas-Fuelled Heating
Check vents regularly to prevent blockages.
Do not install portable gas heaters in poorly ventilated areas, as deadly carbon monoxide can accumulate.
Ensure a fresh air supply when using gas-fired units.
General Safety Tips
Keep heaters at a safe distance from any combustibles.
Do not hang clothing near heaters to dry.
Never use your stove or dryer to heat your home.
Avoid using a hair dryer under the covers to warm your bed, as it could cause a fire.
Keep bedding and toys away from baseboard heaters.
Do not place wet wood on top of a wood stove to dry. Store wood in a dry, vented area.
Regularly inspect wood stoves for defects such as cracks or swelling.
Have second-hand appliances checked by a qualified technician before use.
Request a fire safety inspection from your local fire department.
Create and practise an emergency escape plan with your family.
In case of fire, get out and stay out! Use a neighbour’s phone to call emergency services.
