Dangers of Portable Propane Heaters

Propane Safety reports that propane is a safe, economical and clean-burning fuel. However, this applies only if the fuel is properly used. As far as safety is concerned, propane requires the same level of care you'd use with electricity, natural gas or gasoline. Although generally safe, a portable propane heater does pose some possible threats.

A Portable Gas Heaters is a good source of heat. However, Consumer Reports says that carbon monoxide poisoning is always a risk with a portable propane heater. Carbon monoxide is a dangerous gas because it can possibly lead to death, but it's odorless and tasteless. Consumer Reports suggests limiting propane-fueled heater use to the outdoors or indoors in areas with more than enough ventilation. Propane heaters are available in vented and unvented models. Never use an unvented model indoors, and always ensure a vented model has access to an exhaust vent. If you use a portable propane heater indoors, keep an eye on it, and never leave it on when you're not home or are in bed.

Battery-operated carbon monoxide detectors are available for home use. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends checking or replacing the battery when time changes occur in the fall and spring. The detector works similar to a smoke alarm. When a dangerous level of carbon monoxide is present, the carbon monoxide alarm alerts you to the problem. Leave your home, and immediately dial 911 if the alarm detects carbon monoxide. Even if the alarm doesn't sound, seek medical attention if you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning. Prolonged exposure to the gas or exposure to high levels can cause headaches, fatigue, dizziness, nausea and even death. You might want to purchase several detectors, and use one in the area with the portable propane heater.

A portable propane heater can possibly leak propane. Breathing in or swallowing propane is dangerous and can cause symptoms such as convulsions, cough, diarrhea, breathing difficulties and loss of consciousness. Propane doesn't have a natural smell, which makes it even more dangerous. To combat this problem, propane manufacturers add bad smells to the propane. Propane might smell like a dead animal, rotten eggs or worse. If your portable propane heater starts emitting a terrible odor, that means it's leaking. You should immediately turn the unit off, leave the area and dial 911. Propane gas detectors are available if you're concerned about not smelling the odor.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, in 2003 space heaters were the source of three out of every five fire-related injuries in the home. In 2006, the association reported that home heating was the second highest cause of fires in the home. Fire is always a possibility when dealing with a flammable substance such as propane or an open flame. Keep flammable objects such as curtains, linen and paper away from the heater. You also should ensure all vents and vent connections are secure.

Related Post: What Are the Dangers of Using Propane Heaters?