Firefighters Warn: Never Plug THIS Item Into a Power Strip

Because extension cables and power strips are not designed to withstand the high energy demands of space heaters, firefighters strongly warn against using them. Many people will soon begin utilizing space heaters to combat the cold as winter draws closer. Although these convenient gadgets provide much-needed warmth, it’s important to utilize them carefully.

To function, space heaters need a lot of wattage and amperage. Connecting them to a power strip poses a serious risk of fire. The dangers of utilizing power strips with space heaters are being actively promoted by firefighters, who advise everyone to plug these heaters straight into wall outlets.

Extension cables and power strips that overheat can cause fires, which might seriously damage your house and put lives in danger. 44% of all home heating-related fires are caused by space heaters, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), space heaters are responsible for 25,000 home fires per year, which lead to thousands of injuries and 300 fatalities.

Your first concern should always be safety. Never connect a space heater into a power strip; instead, use a wall outlet to keep yourself and your loved ones safe. Firefighters have provided the following advice:

Use a Wall Outlet at All Times: Make sure your space heater is plugged into a wall outlet rather than an extension cable or power strip.
Avoid Combustible Materials: Keep the space heater at least three feet away from any combustible objects, such as bedding, furniture, or drapes.
Avoid Overloading Circuits: Do not use other high-wattage devices in the same outlet as your space heater because doing so can overload the circuit.

Monitor Usage: A space heater should never be left on unattended. When you leave the room or go to bed, turn it off.
Examine Your Heater Frequently: Prior to every usage, inspect the space heater for wear or damage, and abide by the safety instructions provided by the manufacturer.
Install Smoke Alarms: Make sure all of the smoke alarms in your house are operational, and test them frequently.