During winter, it’s common to rely on space heaters and extension cords to stay warm and comfortable — but these helpful tools can also become fire or shock hazards if not used properly. At Heartland REMC, your safety is our priority. Here’s how to use these items safely all season long.

Extension cords should always be a temporary solution — not a permanent fix. Never run them under rugs, through doors, or behind furniture where heat can build up unnoticed. Make sure you’re using the right type for the job — outdoor-rated cords for outside use, and heavy-duty cords for high-wattage appliances.

Never plug space heaters into extension cords or power strips.They draw a lot of power and should always be plugged directly into a wall outlet to avoid overheating. Place your space heater on a level, hard surface — never on carpet or near flammable materials like curtains, bedding, or furniture.

Keep a three-foot safety zone around all space heaters and always turn them off when leaving a room or going to sleep. Look for models with built-in safety features like tip-over shutoff and overheat protection, and make sure they’re certified by an independent lab like UL or ETL.

Also, check cords and plugs for wear or damage before use. Frayed wires or scorched plugs are signs it’s time to replace the cord — or the heater itself.

With a little extra caution, you can stay warm and safe all winter long. For more home safety tips, visit heartlandremc.com/safety or call 260-758-3155.