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Portable Space Heaters

Portable space heaters are a convenient way to supply additional heat for your home or office during the winter months. However, when used improperly they can be a serious fire and electrical hazard. If you find your workplace to be particularly cold, please submit a Service Request to have the issue assessed. Portable heaters should be used as a temporary solution during shoulder season or building heating system failures. 

Here’s how you can help keep yourself and others safe while using portable space heaters:

  • Only use a heater that bears an official mark or label indicating that the product has been independently assessed for safety (e.g. UL or CSA certified). Visit the . 
  • Only purchase portable heaters with a tip-over switch. This safety feature turns the heater off automatically when it’s tipped over.
  • Give your heater some space. Always maintain a minimum of three feet between the heater and any combustible materials, including chairs, curtains and papers. 
  • Check cords for damages or frays before each use.
  • Ensure your heater is securely plugged into a power outlet and that the cable is not a tripping hazard. It should also be placed on a level surface to prevent it from easily tipping over. Do not place it on top of tables, chairs or any unstable surfaces. 
  • Turn off the power when you leave the room and never leave it on unsupervised. 
  • Do not plug your heater into an extension cord or power bar as this can increase the chance it will overheat and potentially cause a fire. 
  • If the power cord feels hot to the touch, immediately unplug it and do not use it until a certified electrician inspects it for damage.
  • Do not use the heater near water or touch it if you are wet, as this could increase your risk of being electrocuted. 
  • Do not place the power cord underneath carpets, rugs or furniture, as this could prevent the cord from releasing its retained heat and potentially cause a fire. 
  • Use of any portable heaters that run on combustible/flammable fuels is strictly prohibited. Only electric plug-in portable heaters are permitted.