Portable electric space heaters are able to  provide heat quickly without the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.  Making portable electric space heaters a good way to quickly provide extra warmth to a chilly family room.   However if you have little kids it is important to practice safety around them.   . Here are some helpful tips for using space heaters safely.

* Keep  kids away space heaters, electrical or otherwise.

• Use a space heater that has been certified by a recognized testing laboratory.

• Use the heater on the floor. Never place heaters on cabinets, tables, other furniture, or the like.

• Keep space heaters at least 3 feet away from upholstered furniture, drapes, bedding, and other combustible materials. Do not place heaters where towels, clothing, or other items could fall on the appliance and possibly catch fire.

• Do not permit children to touch or move the heater, or to adjust the controls.

• Avoid using an extension cord unless absolutely necessary. If you must use an extension cord, don’t use a light-gauge household one. Use a heavy-gauge cord. Do not bury any cords under carpeting or rugs. Also, keep the cord stretched out–heat will build up in a coiled cord, possibly melting the insulation and causing a fire. Do not place anything on top of the cord. Only use extension cords bearing the label of an independent testing laboratory such as Underwriter’s Laboratories (UL) or Electrical Testing Laboratories (ETL).

• Never use heaters for drying anything, including apparel or shoes.

• Turn space heaters off when you go to sleep or leave the house.