Kerosene heaters are not as prevalent as
they used to be, but if you still use one you should keep the following in mind.
 Never use or mix other
combustibles, such as petrol in a kerosene heater.Even small amounts of
petrol mixed with kerosene will dramatically increase the risk of
fire.
Store
kerosene outdoors, and out of the reach of children.
Store in a tightly sealed, preferably blue plastic or metal
container labelled "KEROSENE"
to reduce the likelihood of mistaking other fuels
with the kerosene.
Locate the heater so it will not be knocked over or trap you
in case of fire. The heater should be placed out of
the path of traffic areas such as doorways and hallways and should be
placed at least 1 metre away from anything that might
catch fire such as clothing, furniture, curtains, etc. Keep flammable liquids
and fabrics away from any open flame.
Keep the room in which the
heater operates ventilated (e.g. door open or the window ajar). This will
prevent an indoor air pollution problem and minimize health problems. The heater
should always be turned off while
sleeping and never left operating unattended.
Never fill the heater while
it is operating. Always refuel the heater outdoors to prevent spillage on floors
and rugs which could later result in fire ignition.
Never try to move the heater
or try to smother the flames with a rug or a blanket if a flare-up (flames
outside the heater cabinet) occurs. Moving the heater may increase the height of
the flames and cause leakage resulting in a spread of the fire and an
increased likelihood of personal injury. If you don't
possess the appropriate fire fighting equipment and/or skills
call the fire brigade immediately and evacuate
the house.
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