In this section:

Alternative Heating

  • Allow your heater to cool before refueling and only refuel outdoors.
  • Fill your heater with only crystal clear, K-1 kerosene, not gasoline or camp stove fuel both explode easily.
  • Keep the fire in the fireplace by making sure you have a screen large enough to catch flying sparks and rolling logs.
  • Clean your chimney regularly chimney tar build-up can ignite your chimney, roof and the whole house.
  • Space heaters need space. Keep combustibles at least three feet away from each heater.
  • When buying a space heater, look for a control feature that automatically shuts off the power if the heater falls over.
  • Carefully follow manufacturers' installation and maintenance instructions.
  • For wood stove fuel use only seasoned wood, not green wood, artificial logs or trash.
  • In case of a fire, stay low to the ground, beneath the smoke, and have an escape plan already worked out.
  • Install a smoke alarm on every level of your home. Test the batteries every month and change them at least once a year.