If you use a space heater, keep these safety tips in mind

While space heaters can provide some extra warmth during the cold winter months, they can be expensive to run and require extra safety precautions. There are more than 20,000 residential fires a year caused by space heaters according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Here are some recommendations to help you enjoy the benefits of your space heater while reducing the possible risks.

• Keep your space heater at least three feet away from anything that could catch fire, such as curtains or drapes.
• Only use a space heater that has the UL label.
• Make sure your space heater has a tip-over switch so it will turn off automatically if it gets knocked over.
• Plug your space heater directly into an outlet; do not use an extension cord. Unplug it if the cord or plug gets hot. Warm is normal, but it should not get hot.
• Turn off your space heater before going to bed and anytime you leave the house.
• Keep small children and pets away from your space heater.

To help keep you from using your space heater too much, here are a few things you can do to fend off the cold:

• Caulk around windows and doors.
• Make sure vents are not blocked by any furniture.
• Throw on a warm sweater and a pair of comfy socks.

Visit lge-ku.com/tips for more energy-efficiency ideas.