As heating costs continue to rise, energy costs are on everyone's mind. Portable electric heaters can be an efficient way to warm a room or supplement central heating, but if not used properly, they can be a fire or electric shock hazard.

The Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers offers these tips for safely using a portable electric heater.

•Read the manufacturer's instructions and warning labels before using a heater.

•Do not leave an operating heater unattended and always unplug the heater when not in use.

•Do not use a heater with a power strip or extension cord. Overheating of a power strip or extension cord could result in a fire.

•String out cords on top of area rugs or carpeting. Placing anything, including furniture, on top of the cord may damage it.

•Keep combustible materials such as furniture, pillows, bedding, papers, clothes, curtains, paint, gas cans and matches at least three feet from the front of the heater and away from the sides and rear. Do not block the heater's air intake or outlet.

•Unless the heater is designed for outdoor use or in bathrooms, do not use in damp or wet areas. Parts in the heater may be damaged by moisture.

•Check periodically for a secure plug/outlet fit. If the plug does not fit snugly into the outlet or if the plug becomes very hot, the outlet may need to be replaced. Check with a qualified electrician to replace the outlet.

•Unplug the heater when not in use by pulling the plug straight out from the outlet. Inspect the heater's cord periodically. Do not use a heater with a damaged cord.

•Do not plug any other electrical device into the same outlet as a heater. This could result in overheating.

•Heaters should be kept away from children and not be placed in a child's room without supervision.

•Place the heater on a level, flat surface. Only use a heater on tabletops when specified by the manufacturer. It could fall, dislodging or breaking parts in the heater.

For more safety information or to receive a copy of the free "Stay Safe!" brochure, visit www.heatersafety.org or call (888) 785-SAFE (7233).

This article provided by North American Precis Syndicate Inc.