Pull the plug Published July 30, 2013 By Natalie Eslinger Air Force Safety Center Public Affairs KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. -- With the temperatures still in the high to higher range, who's thinking about heat-producing appliances and the dangers of using them? Certainly not me! Surely you're not either. That's a mistake; many appliances can cause fires if not used properly: hair dryers, curling irons, clothing irons, phone and tablet chargers, and even back massagers, to name a few. That's exactly what happened to a colleague. A back massager was stored in a bedroom closet and he didn't even realize it was plugged in. When he found it, it had melted from the heat produced by the electricity. Fortunately, the appliance was face-up which may have prevented the carpet from catching fire. Regulations covering space heaters are found in AFI 91-203; however, for other small appliances, the regulation covers which appliances must be plugged directly into the wall outlet, not an extension cord or power strip. Below are highlights of the AFI's safe handling and operation of heat-producing appliances. Heat Producing Appliances Use UL-listed or host nation equivalent space heaters equipped with automatic shut-off devices that will shut off the heater if it tips over. Space heaters shall also have an overheat protection device, an automatic thermostat control and must be disconnected when not in use. Plug space heaters directly into a wall receptacle. Do not plug space heaters into multiple outlet strips. Do not use an extension cord with an electric space heater. Maintain a 36-inch minimum distance or IAW manufacturer's recommendations between any heat producing appliance and combustibles. Note: The more restrictive of the guidance will apply. The use of portable space heaters must be IAW the manufacturers' specifications and have the concurrence of the base energy awareness manager. Do not leave these devices unattended when in use and unplug them at the end of the day or shift. The use of space heaters in any hazardous location is prohibited. Coffee Makers Keep coffee makers and the area around them free of combustibles. Refer to the manufacturer's operating instructions and consult the facility manager for approval after coffee makers placement. Unplug coffee makers at the end of the day. Note: Coffee makers/machines with integral timers need not be unplugged, e.g., Bunn-type coffee brewers. Do not use timers unless the coffee maker comes with an integral timer. Heating Systems Heating devices, such as furnaces or heaters, must be kept clear of combustible and flammable material. All heating equipment must be in good repair. All heating, boiler, air conditioning, air handling and mechanical rooms shall be secured. Decorations Electric string lights and wiring must be UL (or equivalent) approved and in good operating condition. Unplug all electrical decorations when work area is unoccupied. Decorations shall be noncombustible or fire retardant. Larger decorations, i.e., Christmas trees or fake fireplaces, if authorized, shall not block exits or paths of egress. Decorations utilizing an open flame are prohibited. For all your appliances at home, follow the manufacturer's instructions and always pull the plug.