How to Use a Kerosene Heater Safely

By eHow Home & Garden Editor

Rate: (1 Ratings)

During the colder months heaters are on. Take these safety precautions when using a kerosene heater to minimize your chances for starting a fire.

Flag Article

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

Kerosene
Smoke Detectors
Fireproof Safes
Fire Extinguishers
Kerosene Heaters

Step1

Read and follow the directions that come with your kerosene heater.

Step2

Make sure your heater is in working condition. If you have any doubts, have it checked before usage.

Step3

Check that your heater has an emergency shut-off, in the event that the unit topples over.

Step4

Make sure that the room where the heater is has proper ventilation. This will reduce the risk of carbon monoxide building up in the room.

Step5

Avoid using any other fuel than that recommended for the heater.

Step6

Keep young children and pets away from the heater.

Step7

Avoid placing heater anywhere near bedsheets, curtains, pillows or furniture that can ignite from the heat.

Step8

Refuel the appliance outside of the home.

Tips & Warnings

Store flammable fuels in metal containers outside of your home, in a storage area with good ventilation.
Keep a fire extinguisher handy in your home.
Never leave your kerosene heater unattended.
Never use a fuel not intended for your kerosene heater.

Who Can Help:

Comments

Anonymous said

Flag This Comment

on 11/22/2005 Many retailers sell a product to add to kerosene to eliminate odors. These work, but are expensive. A gasoline additive known as "Dry-Gas" contains the same basic ingredient - methanol - and works equally well at a much lower cost.

View All