As winter temperatures drop, many homeowners turn to space heaters for added comfort. While convenient, space heaters also pose a serious fire risk when not used properly. In fact, portable space heaters are among the leading causes of winter residential fires, often resulting in significant property damage and complicated insurance claims.
To help homeowners stay warm and safe, we’ve combined fire-prevention guidance from Art Willins, Fire Prevention Officer with the Kennebecasis Fire Department, and real-world claims insight from Jeff Cronk, Vice President of National Claims.
Why Space Heater Safety Matters
From a loss and claims perspective, heating equipment consistently ranks as a major cause of residential fires. Portable space heaters, in particular, are disproportionately involved in severe incidents due to improper placement, electrical misuse, or unattended operation.
The encouraging reality is that most space-heater fires are preventable with the right equipment, setup, and habits.
General Heating Safety Tips
Art Williams, Fire Prevention Officer – Kennebecasis Fire Department
Art Williams emphasizes that basic fire-safety principles apply to all heating equipment, not just space heaters:
Keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet (1 metre) away from all heating equipment.
Use heating equipment that is listed by a qualified testing laboratory.
Never use your oven or stove to heat your home. These appliances are not designed for space heating and significantly increase fire and carbon monoxide risk.
Ensure fuel-burning equipment is properly vented outdoors to prevent carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.
- Install carbon monoxide (CO) alarms that are listed by a qualified testing laboratory and maintain them regularly to provide early warning.
Space Heater–Specific Safety Tips
Art Williams
When using a portable space heater, Art recommends the following precautions:
Turn heaters off when you go to bed or leave the room.
Only purchase and use space heaters listed by a qualified testing laboratory.
Choose models with automatic shut-off features, including tip-over protection.
Place heaters on a solid, flat surface, keeping both the heater and its electrical cord away from combustible materials, doorways, and high-traffic areas.
Plug space heaters directly into a wall outlet. Never use extension cords or power strips.
Avoid overloading circuits. Do not plug other appliances into the same outlet or circuit, as this can lead to overheating and fire.
A Claims Perspective: What Often Goes Wrong
Jeff Cronk, MBA, FCIP, CRM – Vice President, National Claims
From an insurance claims standpoint, space-heater fires often result in higher-severity losses and potential liability concerns.
“Portable space heaters are disproportionately represented in serious fire claims, especially where improper use or negligence is involved. Placement, electrical safety, and unattended use are common factors in claim investigations.”
Common Causes Seen in Claims
Heaters placed too close to combustibles, such as curtains, bedding, rugs, or upholstered furniture
Electrical hazards, including extension cords, power strips, or overloaded circuits
Unattended operation, particularly overnight
Older or faulty units that lack modern safety features like tip-over shutoff or overheat protection
Risk-Mitigation Strategies That Reduce Losses and Disputes
Following these best practices can significantly reduce fire risk and help avoid complications during a claim:
Placement & Operation
Maintain at least 3 feet (1 metre) of clearance around heaters
Place heaters on stable, flat surfaces
Keep them out of walkways to prevent tipping
Electrical Safety
Plug directly into wall outlets
Inspect cords regularly
Replace the unit if the cord is damaged or warm to the touch
Usage Habits
Turn heaters off when sleeping or leaving the room
Avoid relying on a space heater as a primary heat source, as some insurance policies may restrict coverage in these situations
Equipment Standards
Choose certified heaters with automatic shut-off and overheat protection
Replace older models that lack modern safety features
Documentation Matters — Even Before a Loss
Jeff also recommends homeowners take proactive steps that can help if a claim ever occurs:
Keep receipts, manuals, and maintenance records for heating equipment
Take photos showing a safe heater setup
After any loss, act quickly to prevent further damage and document conditions thoroughly
Good documentation can help speed up claims processing and reduce disputes related to negligence.
Stay Warm. Stay Safe.
Space heaters can be a helpful winter tool—but only when used responsibly. By following guidance from Art Willins of the Kennebecasis Fire Department and claims expert Jeff Cronk, homeowners can significantly reduce fire risk while protecting their homes and families.
A little preparation goes a long way toward a safer winter season.