Lifetime of Safety - February 2007

Lifetime of Safety

At Oncor, electrical safety has been a top priority over many lifetimes. Ever since we began delivering power to Texans more than a century ago, we have practiced safety awareness and recognized its importance in the life of everyone we serve. When it comes to the need for electrical safety, no one is exempt. That is why our Lifetime of Safety messages will cover Texans of all ages and for every season of the year. We are privileged to pass along our decades of experience through the Lifetime of Safety program.

Space Heaters

How to properly use space heaters is this month’s electric safety tip from the Oncor Lifetime of Safety awareness campaign. Heating equipment is involved in an estimated 50,000 home fires annually, resulting in the deaths of more than 250 people. According to the National Fire Protection Agency, in 2003, space heaters were involved in 26 per cent of home heating fires. Of that 26 percent, nearly three fourths resulted in fatalities.

Most accidents involving space heaters are the result of human error – heaters are placed too close to combustible material like drapes and furniture, or they have not been properly maintained.

Our featured tips this month highlight ways to avoid accidents involving space heaters:

  • Give space heaters their space. Space heaters pose a higher risk of fire and death than central heating systems. Keep the space heater at least three feet away from anything that can burn, including walls.
    • >Unplug the heater every time you leave the room and when you go to bed.
  • Plug electric-powered space heaters into an outlet with sufficient capacity and never into an extension cord.
  • Make sure the plug fits snugly in the outlet, since a loose plug can overheat. If you’re using the space heater in the bathroom, be sure to use a ground-fault circuit interrupter. Remember, electricity and water do not mix.
  • Don't hide the cord under a rug or carpet. This can cause the cord to overheat and start a fire.
  • Make sure an independent testing laboratory (Underwriters Laboratories) has approved your new space heater.
  • Visit www.oncor.com/safety for more information on the Lifetime of Safety campaign and staying safe around electricity.

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