When the weather turns cold, it’s common for residents or staff to turn to space heaters for extra warmth, especially in units where central heating is insufficient or costly. However, while space heaters offer short-term comfort, they also introduce serious fire and safety hazards.
This guide outlines the dangers of space heater use in multifamily housing and provides clear recommendations for minimizing risk, including when and how to prohibit or safely manage their use.
What you'll learn
- Why space heaters are more dangerous than central heating systems
- Fire statistics and claims related to space heater use
- Safety precautions to follow if space heaters are permitted
- Recommendations for housing organizations on policy and enforcement
Why this matters
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission links portable space heaters to more than 1,700 fires and an average of 80 deaths each year. These incidents are often preventable.
Because space heaters are easy to misuse, are placed too close to furniture, left unattended, or plugged into extension cords, they present a significantly higher fire risk than traditional heating systems. For housing organizations, the consequences can be devastating: property damage, injuries, liability, and potential loss of life. Clear policies, communication with residents, and proactive safety planning are essential to reduce risk and keep properties safe during the colder months.
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This article is for general information only. HAI Group® makes no representation or warranty about the accuracy or applicability of this information for any particular use or circumstance. Your use of this information is at your own discretion and risk. HAI Group® and any author or contributor identified herein assume no responsibility for your use of this information. You should consult with your attorney or subject matter advisor before adopting any risk management strategy or policy.
HAI Group® is a marketing name used to refer to insurers, a producer, and related service providers affiliated through a common mission, management, and governance. Property-casualty insurance and related services are written or provided by Housing Authority Property Insurance, A Mutual Company; Housing Enterprise Insurance Company, Inc.; Housing Specialty Insurance Company, Inc.; Housing Investment Group, Inc.; and Housing Insurance Services (DBA Housing Insurance Agency Services in NY and MI).
