D.C. After receiving reports that a recent fire at the Philadelphia Zoo was associated with electrical heat tapes, US Consumer Product Safety Commission is re-issuing its guidelines for the safe use of electric heat tapes. Electric heat tapes are frequently installed in attics and under porches of conventional homes and under floors of mobile homes to prevent water pipes from freezing. The fire at the Philadelphia Zoo killed 23 primates, all of them endangered species.
Early reports indicate that the fire was associated with electric heat tapes.
Newer heat tapes that meet the national standards have a much better safety record than old ones. In addition, people can make using heat tapes much safety by following a few simple safety precautions. Homeowners should check the installation instructions when they change types or brands of heat tape, which often come with different installation requirements. Do not wrap heat tape over itself unless specifically permitted in the manufacturer's instructions. Apply heat tapes directly on the pipe to be protected, never on top of the insulation covering the pipe.