As the weather turns from snow to rain during the early spring, we wanted to share some safety tips to always keep in mind when you think about electric heater rental for your special event, construction site or emergency use at your company. (Many of these do’s and don’ts are based on tips from the Consumer Product Safety Commission, as well as common sense.)
1. Whether you’ve been dancing in the rain or, more likely, shoveling snow, don’t touch an electric heater if you are wet, and keep the heater away from water, snow and ice.
2. Don’t try to use electric heaters to dry wet clothes (for example, don’t put your soggy coat or gloves in front of a heater, even for “just a few minutes”).
3. Don’t leave the heater operating while unattended.
4. Do place a heater only on a stable, level surface, in a spot where it won’t get kicked, knocked over, or tripped over.
5. Don’t place a heater closer than 3 feet (0.9 m) from any combustible materials, including papers, boxes, plastic bags or vinyl sheeting/tarps, upholstered furniture, drapes/curtains, etc.
6. Do make sure the heater cord plug fits tightly into the electrical outlet; avoid using outlets where the plug feels like a loose fit.
7. Don’t plug the heater into an extension cord or power strip, and discontinue use of the heater if you determine the plug or cord, wall outlet, or faceplate is hot.
8. Don’t run the heater’s cord under rugs or carpeting, because doing so can lead to cord damage which can cause a fire.
9. Finally—and I'm serious about this—do not use any of our electric heaters to dry off your four-legged company mascot when he or she trots in all wagging and wet from inclement weather. The animal could be injured. (Enough said, right?)
Electric heater rental is the answer to many situations your business might face during the colder months, and keeping your workers warm in warehouses, trailers or temporary structures is a must. For your safety and comfort, we always work closely with you to decide on the best size of heater for the space you need to heat.
Of course, our units are always safety checked before every rental. This seasonal reminder to use them only as intended should help protect your whole team from careless or unsafe practices onsite. Contact us if you are in need of some electric heaters!