Here in Tennessee, the warmer weather reminds us that Spring is just around the corner. At the same time, Winter is still hanging on. Space heaters provide a welcome comfort from those cold morning and evening temperatures. Unfortunately, if not used properly, space heaters can also cause a devastating fire and a major claim on your homeowners insurance. Here are some tips to keep your family and home safe this winter.

DO…

Choose the Right Size

If you plan to use a space heater to keep a room warm, make sure it’s an appropriate size for the area you’re heating. If it’s too small, the room will still feel cold and drafty, but if it’s too big, it could overheat. The number of exterior doors and windows may affect the temperature, as well. 

Monitor Kids & Pets

Keep it on a level surface where curious kids and playful pets can’t easily knock it over. Watch them closely to keep little hands from getting burned. Consider using the low setting when kids and pets are in the room to minimize potential injuries.

Keep It Clean

Most space heaters sit on the floor, so they collect dirt, dust, and pet hair that gets kicked up. This becomes a fire hazard if you don’t keep it clean. With the heater off, unplugged, and completely cooled, dust the grill, top, and bottom. Doing so will help you avoid unnecessary homeowners insurance claims.

DON’T…

Leave It On When You Sleep

Despite how cozy it sounds to have a warm heater going as you drift off to sleep, unplugging it before bed will save you, your family, and your home from a fire.

Let It Touch Other Objects

Keep your space heater at least three feet away from objects in any direction. It shouldn’t touch your bed, couch, coffee table, or blankets. Low-pile carpeting, hardwood, and tile flooring are suitable to set the heater on but avoid shag and high-pile carpeting.

Use an Extension Cord

Using an extension cord with a space heater increases the risk of someone tripping over the cord and knocking it over. Instead, always plug it directly into the wall and keep the cord loose. Inspect the cord and plug regularly for damage. If you see any issues, such as fraying, stop using the appliance immediately.

By following these suggestions, you may be able to avoid damages that could result in a large homeowners insurance claim. For more information on protecting your property, speak with your local independent agent or contact Farmers Mutual of Tennessee online or call (800) 824-9555 to speak with a friendly FMT representative. Since 1913, Farmers Mutual of Tennessee has been providing quality insurance coverage at an affordable price to residents throughout Tennessee. One of FMT’s local independent agents will be happy to find the right coverage for your home, mobile home, rental dwelling, or farm and at a price to fit your budget.