Safety measures to follow while using room heaters

It is that time of the year again when it gets difficult to get out of bed and your room heater becomes your best friend. But, don't get too comfortable and use them mindfully as the carbon mono-oxide they release can be extremely dangerous.

Things to keep in mind while using room heaters:

• Carbon mono-oxide poisoning can cause sleep asphyxia (the state of being unable to breathe) so turn off the heater after one hour or so and unplug it before leaving the room or going to bed.
• Make sure you are using heater in a ventilated room as too much carbon-monoxide exposure can cause headaches, dizziness, abdominal pain or discomfort, nausea, vomiting and weakness.
• Room heaters can cause dryness or humidity. Experts suggest keeping a bucket of water in the room which helps in balancing moisture.
• People who smoke or have asthma are more prone to the negative effects of carbon mono-oxide.
• Restrict using room heaters for long hours with kids below the age of 5.
• It's better to opt wearing warm clothes and use oil heaters instead of a room heater.

Also watch: Winter Care: Natural remedies to get rid of nose blockage