According to the data released by the National Fire Protection Association, heating equipment like space heaters, water geysers, and electric blankets, etc., are the second major cause of home fires in India. Nearly half of these accidents occur during the winter months of December, January, and February. Apart from fire-related incidents, these appliances can also be the reason for burns and bruises to children, pets and other members occupying a house./p>
While this equipment is useful in various ways to keep us warm and efficient during the wintertime, such dangers associated with them cannot be ignored. It is therefore prudent to use these appliances safely so as to avoid any unwanted accidents that can harm you in many ways. Here are some of the tops safety tips that you should keep in mind while using heating equipment during winter:
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Buy only certified electrical appliances
All the electronic appliances are tested and certified as per the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) on the basis of certain safety parameters. The manufacturers of these products are required to provide certain crucial information about the construction and usage of the heating equipment that determines its safety standards. Hence, you should always buy BIS certified heating appliances which are risk-free and safe to use at homes.
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Keep these equipment away from pets and children
Electric appliances such as room heaters generate a lot of hot air by converting electrical energy into heat. This makes them dangerous for pets and children as they can cause electric shocks or serious burns by accidently coming into contact with the appliance. Also, it should be kept at a safe distance from other flammable objects in the house that can catch fire easily such as decorations, clothes, rugs, and furniture, etc.
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Use water heating devices very carefully
If you’re using a water heating appliance such as geysers, you need to be very careful while using it. Since water is a conductor of electricity, it can be a cause for electrical shocks and short-circuit fires. So, ensure that there is no leakage from anywhere before you start using the water heater. Also, remember to keep it at a place where it is shielded from possible splashes of water as it can damage its electrical system and house wiring.
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Never leave them unattended for long timel
Whether you’re using a portable room heater or a fixed water geyser, you must never leave them unattended for a prolonged period or run them overnight while you’re sleeping. Always remember to switch off and unplug the appliance before leaving the place or going to bed. Prolonged usage of electrical heaters in a closed room can also create carbon-monoxide poisoning which can cause headache, dizziness, nausea and weakness.
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Plug these devices directly into the wall socket
Electronic heating appliances should be plugged directly into the wall socket. These devices draw a lot of power and using an extension cord or a power strip increases the chances of overheating of the circuit which can cause electric fires or shock injuries. Even if it is necessary to use an extension cord, make sure that it is appropriately rated to withstand high pressures and support heavy electronic appliances.
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Test smoke alarms and carbon-monoxide detector regularly
Smoke alarms and carbon-monoxide detectors are important elements for your home safety. You should test these utilities at least once every month to ensure it is fully functional and working properly. If your home’s fire alarm is dependent on the electrical service, sometimes it may not work during a power outage. If your smoke alarm has a back-up battery, install a new battery every year.
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Don’t use products that are more than 10 years old
It’s very dangerous to use electrical heating appliances that are more than ten years old. It carries a risk of overheating and short-circuits due to worn out parts and hence can be a cause of an electric fire. Also, the new models come with advanced safety features, such as tip-over protection which shuts off the heater automatically if it falls over and hence are impervious to risks of fire and other dangers.
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Call expert professionals for annual maintenance of equipment
Call a qualified expert professional to inspect and clean your heating appliance at least once a year. Check the area around the furnace or boiler of the equipment. Also, look out for damages in the unit and cord, and whether it’s heating sufficiently. In case of any discrepancies, you should contact the customer care or service provider immediately.
While it’s important to follow these safety measures while using any type of electrical heating equipment, the possibility of a mishap can never be ruled out. Hence, it’s equally prudent to stay financially secured against any unforeseen occurrence that can ruin your mental as well as financial health. That is why it is recommended to buy a home insurance policy that also provides accident insurance to safeguard yourself against such instances and tackle them with ease.