Electric heater – Protection and safety
Although electricity is the safest and most convenient fuel in many heating situations, it is of course not without its inherent risks. Although there is no possibility of a silent killer such as carbon monoxide being emitted into the atmosphere, the dangers of faulty wiring and improper use of electrical equipment in areas where there is water create a different type of danger.
Of course, modern equipment has lessened the risks of injury or death from all types of electrical equipment. In the case of electric heaters, this includes the use of synthetic polymers in the wiring, which are similar to rubber in their insulating ability. Additionally, modern circuit breakers can disable a circuit in the event of a short circuit or system overload.
Unfortunately, electric space heaters are still responsible for many accidents and deaths, despite these modern advances. Fire, rather than electrocution, remains the greatest danger. Often caused by malfunctioning elements or careless heater use, these fires are responsible for not only injuries and deaths each year, but also cause millions of pounds of damage to buildings and property.
The elements in many electric heaters are not only dangerous if they malfunction, but the inherent heat itself can be a hazard. If the heater is not placed a safe distance from neighboring furniture, extremely flammable materials can be ignited, often emitting dangerous gases into the atmosphere. Although the standards regarding acceptable materials in furniture have tightened considerably in recent years, many vintage items are still in circulation.
In addition to furniture, curtains are a major problem. This is because heaters tend to be placed at the edge of a room, allowing heat to reach everywhere. Also, as the area near the windows tends to be the coldest part of a room, the heater is often placed in this area, making the risk of curtains overheating a very real possibility.
Paper items are also at great risk, as are clothing items, which are often deliberately placed near heaters to shed cold or moisture. Of course, it goes without saying that all kinds of flammable liquid should be kept away from fire and heaters. Still, even though this is obvious, thousands of accidents happen every year because this simple advice is completely ignored.
Water is especially dangerous when using an electric heater. Although there are never any power outlets in a modern bathroom, which in itself is testament to the danger of electricity mixed with water, modern homes are often equipped with a free-standing electric heater on the wall. In this case, it is especially important to ensure that all necessary security checks are carried out regularly. Of course, you should never carry an extension cord into the bathroom in order to use an electric heater.
If you are going to use electricity to heat your home, especially if you are going to use handheld heaters, be sure to do the necessary research on safety precautions, government policies and recommendations, and advice from the charities and associations involved. . with safety tips.