Baby, it’s cold outside. Yes, it’s starting to be cozy-up weather, a time when thoughts turn to….space heaters. They’re convenient and effective, and you don’t have to warm up rooms you aren’t spending time in.
BUT, be safe. A third of all house fires are cause by space heaters that overheat, melt, tip over, or are used improperly. You’ve probably had that one stashed in the closet for years. Time to replace it. Newer ones have better safety features, like anti-tips, automatic turn-off at overheating, and protections against fabric that leans against it, catching fire. Look on the box for the features of various brands. (You can also see what Consumer Reports, Comparaboo, or another research company has to say about those brands.) Buy the one that does the best job and, above all, is safest.
When you get it home, remember to plug it into it’s own dedicated socket (no rats nests of plugs piggy-backed into that poor socket) and keep it three feet away from flammable items.
One more thing–if you have friends or relatives (especially older or disabled ones), pass on this info to them. Maybe even buy them a new heater for Christmas.
Once again, dear readers, please keep safe. I need you!