Keeping Children Safe Near Heating

With the temperature outside beginning to drop as quickly as the leaves from the trees it is obvious that Fall is in full swing and its chilly cousin Winter is just around the corner. This temperature drop is a minor irritation to most people because it simply means turning on the heating and having slightly higher utility bills; but what about those of us with small children?

How can we protect our infants from any burn risks when our heating appliances are on full power?

Radiators

Radiators are perhaps the easiest type of heater to provide protection for. Radiator covers are available from a number of different stores these days, from DIY warehouses to interior goods retailers, and most of them are made from attractive carved wood making them a nice addition to the home as well as a safety feature. They work by allowing heat to pass through the cuts and grooves in the wood but making the actual radiator inaccessible to little hands. Bear in mind that, while electric radiators can be covered fairly easily, gas central heating systems will also have exposed pipes that can get just as hot as the radiators and these may also near covered.

Fires

A roaring, open fire can be a beautiful addition to any home but it is also one of the most dangerous ways of heating a home if you have children. Wire mesh fireguards are often thought of as a safety device but they are really only designed to prevent embers from popping out of the fire; they are not designed to stop little people getting too close. Mesh fire guards are light, easily moved and can get quite hot, making them ineffectual at keeping children away. Guards that surround the entire fireplace are more effective. Similar in appearance to ornamental fences, these guards are tall enough that toddlers will not be able to climb over them. These large fireplace guards are usually tastefully decorated but if they are an aesthetic intrusion they can usually be folded away when the kids are out of the room.

Storage and Fan Heaters

Storage heaters, fan heaters and any other heaters which expel heat from grills tend to have incredibly hot lids. It is imperative then that you warn your kids about laying their toys, or anything else on top of these heaters while they play; because anything resting on top of these heaters has the potential to reach temperatures capable of delivering a minor burn.

If you have children, or children are likely to visit home, then the above suggestions should be enough to keep your home warm and safe this fall and winter.

Post provided by The Economy Radiator Company