Nick Markowitz's Fire & Electrical Safety Section

By Nick Markowitz
Copyright©1997

Fires can occur at any time, especially when there's been a natural disaster. Whether it is a bad storm, an earthquake (see Section IV), or merely a power outage, if it is cold weather, the first thing many people do is drag out their kerosene heaters and lanterns. In this regard, under the best of conditions, fire safety is a must; but it is even more critical during an emergency.

The first rule of thumb when using kerosene appliances is to use good-quality kerosene fuel. K1 is usually the best, but always follow the manufacturer's recommendations. If someone you know should offer you some other kind of fuel that they say will work in your kerosene appliances, such as jet fuel, no matter what the price, pass it up and buy the real thing.

Another rule of thumb when using kerosene appliances is to store the fuel in an approved container and keep the cap on tight to prevent spills and contamination. If the can you want to use had gasoline in it at some time in the past, no matter how thorough you may have washed it, do not use this can for your kerosene fuel. Only use cans that have had nothing other than kerosene in them.

Local Regulations and Maintenance

Some communities do not permit their citizens to use kerosene appliances in some environments. This is especially true of apartment tenants. However, in some communities this also applies to single- family dwellings. So, before you buy a kerosene lantern or space heater, be sure to check with the local building codes authority and fire inspection department to find out if they are allowed.

Naturally, after sitting all summer without being used, always take your kerosene appliances to a specialist to have them maintained. Cleaning is very important and you should have them install a new wick. Be sure the technician that works on your appliance uses only replacement parts approved by the original manufacturer.

Another important aspect associated with using kerosene appliances is the distance between them and combustible materials in the environment. Maintain at least one foot (12 inches) of space between them and draperies, furniture and other combustibles.

These appliances also require constant supervision to assure that they do not catch on fire or cause a fire by radiated heat. In addition, supervision assures that children in the home will not come into contact with the hot surface of a kerosene device.

Another concern is that of carbon monoxide. Are you using your kerosene appliance in a well-ventilated area? What about a carbon dioxide CO detector? In a tightly sealed room, CO could become an issue in short order, causing those inside the enclosed area to become ill or even perish. A CO detector will provide early warning of such a problem. Because power may be an issue during a disaster, it is probably wise to purchase both a battery and electric model.

Thawing Water Pipes

Frankly, one of the things that people mistakenly do is use kerosene heaters to thaw out water pipes. The best procedure is to thaw pipes by naturally heating the room. They take longer to thaw, this is true, but the fire risk of the other alternative is too great and potentially costly to consider. Another alternative, if electricity is available, is to use an electric hair dryer.

Another risk in the home is the use of what some call a "salamander" kerosene heater. These are often found on construction sites in some portions of the country. One man lost his new home and almost his family when he used one for this very purpose. He only walked away from it for three minutes--instant inferno.

There is little doubt that kerosene heaters make a great emergency source of heat and light. But they also contribute to many winter time fires and fire deaths. Before using your kerosene heater, be sure to follow the above advice and read the instruction manual that came with your kerosene appliances.

Editor's Note: Remember, if you use a kerosene heater in the wrong way, you may get one of those house calls from your local fire department. Using a kerosene lantern can also get you into trouble if you do not know how to safely use them. I cannot stress enough the need to read the instruction manual that came with your appliances, or you might end up taking an unexpected trip to the hospital. In the mean time, think SNOW!!! --Nick Markowitz

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