Cold weather safety: Is your space heater more harmful than helpful

Written by: Katherine Kirk
Media contact: Anna Jones

UAB trauma experts provide safety advice on space heaters and heated blankets alongside tips for how to dress warmly to prevent illness during the winter months.The United States Environmental Healthcare Agency found that death rates rise about 8 to 12 percent in cold weather months due to heater safety issues. As cold weather continues, experts from the University of Alabama at BirminghamBurn Center provide tips for staying safe during cold weather.

James Hwang, M.D., UAB Burn Center director, says burn injuries from space heaters, heated blankets and hot liquids are most concerning during the winter months. Hypothermia and frostbite during extreme temperatures can cause issues for individuals not prepared for cold weather.

Space heater safety

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, nearly 32,000 U.S. households reported a fire started by a home heating device, resulting in 190 deaths and 625 injuries in 2021.

"Snug as a bug in a rug … near a space heater," said Josette Cockrell, manager of the UAB Burn Program. "Space heaters have become popular, especially among the elderly population. We have treated many injuries related to older individuals backing into a space heater in a gown, pajamas, robe or jacket and catching on fire."

Space heaters should always be placed on a hard, flat surface at least 3 feet away from loose items such as curtains, furniture and clothing. Hwang urges people to be extra cautious when using space heaters in areas where there are flammable liquids or chemicals, like garages or workshops.

"Heaters should be in a child- and pet-free zone," Hwang said. "Heaters can easily be knocked over, so it is good to have a heater with a timer and shutoff switch."

Space heaters should not be run for an extended period and should be turned off when not in use. They should always be plugged directly into a wall as opposed to an extension cord. Hwang notes that plugs should not be pulled out of the outlet by the cord; this can weaken the cord, which increases its chance of malfunction.

Heated blankets, jackets and gloves

While heated blankets do not pose as big a threat as space heaters, UAB experts still urge users to take caution. Hwang emphasizes the importance of proper use, especially for the elderly, individuals with paralysis and individuals with diabetes.

"This high-risk population of individuals should not use electric blankets due to thinning of the skin and the loss of sensation and nerve damage in extremities," Hwang said.

Hwang says it is important to purchase electrically heated devices from well-known brands with reputable agencies. Heated blankets should be rolled and not folded to prevent damage and should be checked regularly for damage to the cord or heating elements. Hwang encourages unplugging heated blankets before going to sleep or when they are not in use. He also says these devices should not be layered with other heating products such as heating pads or other blankets.

"Individuals should avoid getting the heating device wet as it can be a safety hazard," Hwang said. "People with incontinence issues or open weeping wounds and those who have water bottles in bed should take steps to avoid getting the blanket wet and malfunctioning."

Hwang says the problem with heated jackets and gloves is the lithium-ion batteries. They can become explosive and cause burn injuries. He urges users to change the batteries regularly and check jackets for damage before use.

Fire and hot liquid safety

Dana Doriety, burn educator at UAB, stresses that getting carbon monoxide and fire alarms checked regularly is important during the cold weather seasons.

"People are running their fireplaces and space heaters during the winter, so it is important to check your alarms and detectors," Doriety said.

Older adults, children and people experiencing homelessness are the most vulnerable during the winter seasons.

"People experiencing homelessness are at a higher risk for burn injuries during the extreme cold because they light fires for warmth wherever possible," Hwang said. "People often will use gasoline to light fires. This is very dangerous and can cause harm to the person starting the fire and others around them."

While older adults are more likely to burn themselves on space heaters, they are more susceptible to getting burns from spilling hot liquids on themselves.

"Older adults also like to boil water for different uses when it's cold, often spilling hot water onto themselves. Hot spills also consist of soups, coffee and or teas," Hwang said.

Experts at Children's of Alabama say diabetics and parents of small children should be cautious around hot liquids as well. Diabetics often contract burns due to a lack of sensitivity; they cannot feel how hot the water temperature is. Children are at risk because they often pour hot liquids on themselves or place their hands in hot liquids.

Hot water should also never be used to defrost windshields.

"Hot water not only will crack your windshield, but will cause major burns if you slip, fall on ice and spill hot liquids," Hwang said.

Frostbite and hypothermia

Cold weather puts stress on the body and can lead to cold-related illnesses, with the most common being frostbite and hypothermia.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says early signs of cold-related illness are shivering, numbness or prickliness, fatigue, confusion, muscle stiffness, and a change in skin color or texture. The most common areas affected by frostbite are the nose, ears, cheeks, toes and chin.

The CDC recommends going to the doctor if one experiences fever, swelling, intense shivers, slurred speech, loss of coordination or discharge after exposure to the cold. To prevent cold-related illnesses, spend less time outside during cold weather, wear layers, protect your hands and feet, and drink warm beverages.

"Frostbite occurs during extremely cold temperatures," Hwang said. "Please wear thick hats, scarves, socks and gloves, and minimize your exposure to extreme cold. Being prepared is the most important thing you can do to protect yourself this winter season."

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