...that portable heaters can be as safe to use as your iron or hair dryer if used properly? And, just like your common kitchen appliances, portable heaters can be safe to use everyday. In fact, your coffee maker, electric griddle/skillet, and toaster oven all use the same amount of electricity and get just as hot as a portable heater. It's knowing how to use them safely that makes the difference.

Manufacturers of Honeywell portable heaters, in conjunction with the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM), have developed 11 simple tips for safely using a portable heater this season. For the latest portable heater safety information visit heatersafety.org.

	1.	Read the manufacturer's instructions and warning labels before using any portable electric heater (or any household appliance).
	2.	Keep flammable materials away from the heater.
	3.	Don't use a heater outside or in a bathroom, unless it is specifically designed for these areas. This can be very dangerous as parts of the heater can be damaged by moisture. Fire or electric shock hazard may result.
	4.	Periodically check to make sure outlets/plugs are secure. Plugs can become very hot if they do not fit snugly into the outlet. If this occurs, the outlet may need to be replaced. Call a qualified repairman to replace a suspect outlet.
	5.	Be sure to unplug the heater carefully. Pull the plug straight out of the outlet; do not pull the plug at an angle or by the heater's cord. Also, be sure to inspect the cord periodically. DON'T use a heater with a damaged cord; it can be dangerous.
	6.	Monitor the number of appliances using the same outlet. Too many may cause you to overload a circuit.
	7.	Keep heaters at least three feet away from objects such as curtains, bedding and furniture. DON'T block heater air intake or exhaust.
	8.	Place heaters on a level, flat surface. NEVER place heaters on furniture, since it may fall and cause dislodging or breaking parts in the heater. This could result in a fire or shock hazard.
	9.	Children should be kept away from heaters. Keep heaters out of reach from little hands and do not place a heater in a child's room without adult supervision.
	10.	String out cords on top of rugs or floors. Placing anything on top of the cord may damage it.
	11.	Never use an extension cord unless absolutely necessary. Using an improper extension cord with high wattage appliances may cause overheating of the extension cord. If it is necessary to use an extension cord, it must be marked "12-gauge" or "14-gauge."

In addition to following these safety guidelines, be sure your heater has extra safety features like the ones that are part of the Honeywell Safety Matters™ Program. The Honeywell Heater Safety Matters program includes additional safety features that exceed industry standards. Examples of these safety features include:

• Tip over switches (heater automatically turns off if heater tips over)
  
  
• Flame resistant plastics
  
  
• Child resistant power controls
  
  
• Overheat protection (heater automatically turns off if heater exceeds temperature requirements)
  
  
• Caution lights
  
  
• Heavy duty power cords
  
  
• 3-prong grounded plugs
  
  
• SafeGuard™ alert badge that monitors the grille heat
  

*Not all Honeywell heaters come with all the features listed above. Check your specific Honeywell heater for its specific safety features.