With occasional reports of accidents caused by electric heaters during the winter days, experts are reminding the public how to safely use the device. People are advised to place the heater at least 30 centimeters away from them, and avoid putting it in humid places such as the bathroom.

This past March, an electric heater caught fire and caused a great deal of damage. The owner of the heater says that he followed the manufacturer's usage instructions to the letter, but accidents like this one are all too common every year.

There is an array of heaters available on the market, including halogen heat fans and porcelain radiators.

Halogen heaters are the cheapest but most risky option, while radiators are the safest but more expensive option.

Experts say that electrical fires are often the result of contact with water, and that heaters should therefore never be used in bathrooms or humid areas.

Furthermore, as heaters consume high levels of energy, they should not share outlets with other appliances.

Consumers should keep at least 30 centimeters away from heaters at all times, and heaters should never be used to dry clothes.

Most experts also say while air circulation is important, there is no need to crack open windows when heaters are in use. Finally, keeping an open container of water in the room can prevent chapped skin.

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