Yes, but definitely not either.

Heaters are safer than ever. Modern space heaters are highly regulated, especially with regard to exposed heating elements and automatic shut-off switches to prevent overheating. But all heating devices require care, and so do all devices that draw a lot of energy for a long time.

The majority of home heating fires start with actual fires—especially in fireplaces and fuel burners. But space heaters accounted for more than a thousand fires in the US each year from 2017 to 2019, according to the US Fire Administration. Although it accounts for only 3 percent of heating fires overall, it accounts for more than 40 percent of deaths, in part because portable heaters tend to be placed precisely where people are and because the resulting fire is more likely to be out of control.

So treat your space heater with the care and wild skepticism it deserves. Here are some simple safety tips, courtesy of federal experts at the USFA and the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Never leave a space heater unattended. “Uncared for” includes sleep, y’all! If you insist on using one in your bedroom at night, get a device with a timer and use it, so it doesn’t go off all night while you sleep. (Or, maybe we can suggest a nice down comforter instead? very hot mmm.)

Plug your heater directly into the outlet. This is a big one. Do not, in general, use extension cords or power strips with space heaters. Extra cord length increases the electrical load and can lead to shorts, overheating, and fires. If you NEED use a longer cord, consult an expert to make sure you get the correct gauge and rating.

Do not plug another appliance into the same outlet or circuit as the space heater. Probably the worst that can happen is that you trip the circuit breaker. But that’s no fun either.

Place a space heater only on the floor, on a flat surface. There is no particular need to leave a space heater on a table or chair that may be unstable. Heat rises and circulates in the room by convection.

Place your heater at least 3 feet away from flammable materials. This includes bedding, curtains, furniture, the clothes you wear, stray socks or stockings, your food delivery bag, and that great book you’re reading.

Do not leave a portable heater running in a room with a child, nor by someone with mobility issues. The risk is not only fire but also hyperthermia.

Keep heaters away from water and even general dankness. Bathrooms are notoriously dangerous places for high wattage electrical appliances. But also: You know that wet basement? That’s pretty cool and there’s a puddle sometimes? Not a good place for a space heater.

Read the manual. Manufacturers have all kinds of good advice.