Safety Tips for Heat Lamps | Collaborating insurance companies (2024)

As more people raise chickens, pigs and other small animals in the garden, the use of heat lamps is increasing. Lamps are an effective way to keep small creatures warm, but as with any electrical appliance or heat source they should be used with care.

• Respect the deposit:Heat lamps have a wire housing around the bulb called the "bail." It keeps flammable material away from the lamp. Choose a lamp with a sturdy bracket and never remove or replace it.
• Buy good equipment:Good quality heat lamps are UL approved with ceramic collars, metal deflectors and a thick electrical cord.
• Ask an expert about the strength and height of the lamp:Lamps range from 25 watts to 250 watts and usually hang from poles or chains at different heights. Which combination you will use depends on the animals you are heating. don't guess. Find an expert on your animals and find out for sure.
• Securely fasten:The lamp should be securely attached to something that will not easily fall over, blow over or fall over. It is not safe if the lamp assembly can easily slip apart or be tipped over by a person, pet or the animals you are heating.
• Electric smarts:Plug your heat lamp into an AFCI or GFCI equipped outlet that can handle the wattage and protect it from water. (For outdoors, make sure it is designed for outdoor use and is weatherproof.)
• Out of sight:Try to avoid using the lamp at night or when you can't keep an eye on it, and make sure there is a working smoke detector nearby.