Important Safety Tips When Using Kerosene Oil Heaters

Posted: Jan 29, 2012
Author: Bumgarner Oil

It’s fair to say that a kerosene oil heater is only as safe as the person who uses it – there has to be some form of common sense involved. Using a kerosene heater indoors is a great experience – you can watch the flame while sitting snugly with a cup of steaming hot chocolate, coffee or a bowl of soup.

Nevertheless, whenever you operate a kerosene heater indoors, be aware of the following tips and cautions:

• Carbon Monoxide: Like an oil lamp, a candle and a gas stove, a kerosene heater produces carbon monoxide. Some kerosene heaters produce more than others. Also, the amount of emissions will vary among different brands and models. The heater’s condition may influence this as well. Therefore, keep it clean and ensure that it’s running in optimal condition. A carbon monoxide detector would be a good investment.
• Fire Hazards: Again, common sense should kick in. A kerosene heater creates a high surface temperature, so it should not be close to combustible items like walls, paper, drapes or furniture.
• Storage: Never store kerosene in an old gasoline can. It only takes a small amount of gasoline-kerosene mixture to create a dangerous explosion. Store it in a clearly marked container in a garage, barn or shed (not indoors).
• Burn Prevention – Kids, Pets and Adults: Many modern kerosene heaters have protective cages to reduce the risk of burns, but the cages also get very hot and can cause nasty burns. Position the heater where it can’t be tripped over and tell your children to be careful.