Electricity and gas definitely aren't getting any cheaper these days and with the economy going in the direction that it's going in, it's only going to get higher. For many people, the answer to heating in the winter is to use space heaters; however, these can be dangerous if left unattended and even more expensive if not used properly.
One of the first things that you should know is that using extension cords with space heaters is a notoriously bad idea. Heavy duty extension cords (the stereotypical orange variety) is the only way to use one safely and even then, you need to check how much power that particular cord is rated for. If you do not make sure your cord will handle the power load of the heater first, the cord will melt, expose wires, and possibly start a fire. The small extension cords used to run appliances like televisions and DVD players simply will not do. Avoid using small extension cords at all costs; you're asking for trouble if you use a small one.
Do not try to use a space heater to heat a large section of your home and use them only when you are in the room. This keeps both the cost and the potential for danger down.
Never try to use a space heater to dry off wet clothing. Some have put damp socks on top of them, but this isn't a great idea even if you are sitting there watching it. Complacency is extremely common in these kinds of situations and as soon as you feel you are comfortable, you will end up leaving the room and allowing a fire to start.
Smoke detectors, smoke detectors, smoke detectors. I can't say it enough. If you're going to have heaters plugged up in your home at any time, you need to have a few smoke detectors. They can truly save your life if you get distracted or are asleep at night and a fire starts.
One of the worst things that you can do is put a space heater in the room of a small child, especially at night. Do your best to keep these devices out of the rooms of toddlers, since their curiosity will often get the best of them. A room piled with stuffed animals and toys isn't a good place to put a space heater; the risk for fire is too great, unless you make it a point to put all of those things up and away from the heater.
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