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Outdoor Heater Safety

Outdoor Heater Safety

Many people, myself included, enjoy a nice evening out on the porch watching the sunset, looking up at the stars, or sitting around a fire.  With COVID, many things have moved outside, including dining with restaurants.  While it’s more practical to dine outdoors in the warmer states, the states full of snow are struggling to see it as an enjoyable event.  That’s where outdoor heaters come into play and warm up the evenings!  Having an outdoor heater at your place of business so your guests are more comfortable, and you may remain open is a great idea.  Just make sure you are taking the proper precautions when setting one outside.  

Place your heater in a safe location. 

While you want the heaters close enough to the tables where the guests can feel the heat, you don’t want them too close as the guests could become injured.  Your heaters should be placed far enough away from furniture, guests, plants, and anything flammable.  If your heater is ran by propane or fuel, it’s important to make sure it is in an area with good airflow to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.  

Secure your heater.  

What’s worse than a guest or an employee getting burned at your establishment?  Being crushed by an outdoor heater while at your establishment.  Secure your heaters so they do not topple over onto furniture or people.  Many heaters now come with anti-tilt devices or mechanisms, but it’s a good idea to take extra precaution and secure them with a weight such as heat-resistant sandbags, water weights, or flame-resistant cords.  

Know your local laws and fire bans.  

There may be certain bylaws where your business is located that restrict certain types/models of outdoor heaters, fire pits, or fireplaces.  Check your bylaws and local fire bans revolving around weather or if your city is at risk of wildfires before investing in an outdoor heater/fire element.  

Always follow the instructions. 

Every heat source such as a fire pit or heater works differently.  Whether it is maintenance or just running it, make sure to follow the instructions every single time.  Even if you’ve had an outdoor heater before, it may be different than the next one.  

 

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Worthy Insurance is a niche broker with a focus on providing insurance placement and risk management services to the Healthcare, Manufacturing, Social Service, and Main Street business communities. Here at Worthy Insurance, we love to provide you with exciting and fun articles to learn more about insurance and how it impacts your life. Visit our other blogs to find more information. 

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