Heating equipment is a major cause of home fires, which makes safe operation especially important, according to the Electrical Safety Foundation International.

Before turning on a space heater, read the manufacturer’s instructions and make sure the unit and its cord are in good condition. Once in use, here are a few key precautions to keep your home both warm and safe.

• Give it space. Keep the heater at least three feet from anything that can burn, including furniture, bedding, clothing, rugs and paper.

• Plug it into the wall. Never use an extension cord or power strip with a space heater, as these can overheat and create a fire risk.

• Choose a safe location. Place the heater on a solid, flat, level surface away from doorways and high-traffic areas.

• Check before use. Do not operate a heater with a cracked plug, frayed cord, loose connection or other visible damage.

• Protect children and pets. Keep them away from the heater, where they could be burned or accidentally knock it over.

• Turn it off when unattended. Never leave a space heater running when you leave the room or go to sleep. Unplug it when it is not in use.

Visit nfpa.org for information about space heater safety.