Gas-Fired Space Heaters Fire Safety

Gas-Fired Space Heaters Fire Safety Recommendations

• Follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding where and how to use gas space heaters. Unvented heaters should not be used in small enclosed areas, especially bedrooms because of the potential for carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Do not use a propane heater (LP) which has a gas cylinder stored in the body of the heater. Its use is prohibited in most states and localities in the United States.
• Follow the manufacturer's instructions for lighting the pilot. Gas vapors may accumulate and ignite explosively, burning your hand or face.
• Light matches, if needed for lighting, the pilot, before turning on the gas to prevent gas buildup.
• Do not operate a vented style heater un-vented. It could allow combustion products, including carbon monoxide, to reach dangerous levels which will result in illness and death.
• To prevent the risk of fire, NEVER leave a space heater on when you go to sleep or place a space heater close to any sleeping person. Turn the space heater off if you leave the area.
• Use a space heater that has been tested to the latest safety standards and certified by a nationally-recognized testing laboratory. These heaters will have the most up-to-date safety features; older space heaters may not meet the newer safety standards. An unvented gas space heater that meets current safety standards will shut off if oxygen levels fall too low.

YES    NOGas-Fired Space Heaters Fire Safety Checklist

|_____|   |_____|Only vented heaters are installed or used in sleeping quarters.

|_____|   |_____|Vented heaters are properly vented to the outside.

|_____|   |_____|The un-vented gas-fired room heater has a warning label and instructions that are followed.

|_____|   |_____|The un-vented gas-fired room heater has a label stating it has a "pilot safety system" which turns off the gas if not enough fresh air is available.

|_____|   |_____|The vented heater has a label stating that it is equipped with a vent safety shutoff system.

|_____|   |_____|If the heater uses liquified petroleum (LP) gas, the container is located outside the house.

|_____|   |_____|The manufacturer's instructions for lighting the pilot are followed.

|_____|   |_____|Matches are lighted before turning on the gas if pilot lighting is required.

|_____|   |_____|Flammable materials and liquids are kept away from gas heating appliances.