Using Auxillary Heating

Being snowed in with my backup propane space heater working full time made me pause to think about safety issues using such auxiliary heaters. According to a publication entitled “Space Heater Safety: Using Kerosene and Propane” by Sonja Koukel, Assistant Professor of Extension in Alaska, kerosene and propane space heaters can be used safely with a little good sense information. Most of us are probably aware of burn issues but less is known about the danger of carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that interferes with the oxygen availability throughout the body. Even low levels of CO will cause fatigue and chest pain in people with
chronic heart disease. As exposure to this gas increases, one may experience drowsiness, nausea, headaches, vomiting, confusion, and disorientation. A high level of exposure can result in loss of consciousness and even death. If you are using a heater that is not vented, do not close the door to the room in which it is being used. Some sources recommend that you open a window just a tiny bit to allow fresh air to circulate in the room and dilute any dangerous gas levels. “Propane is a cleaner fuel than kerosene. When burned, it emits ultra-low emissions of carbon monoxide. However, unvented propane space heaters still require proper ventilation from outside air,” states Ms. Kookily. Then there is the inconvenience of power outages during snow and ice storms. Many people have already inspected their generators in the event of losing power. Using a gasoline-powered generator can also be dangerous. Never use a generator in a closed or partially closed off area. The levels of CO can build up very quickly. Since the gas is colorless and odorless, a dangerous situation can happen before danger is even suspected. It is important to remember that CO buildup can happen with extended use of a generator even if you think that proper ventilation is in place. For this reason, the generator should always be located outside and away from windows, doors, and vents that could possible draw the gas to the inside. In Cherokee County, many people enjoy gas logs. However, since there is not a natural gas line in the county, gas logs are also powered with propane gas. It is much safer to have vented gas logs as opposed to the ventless logs if you have a choice. Propane does have an odor added to it since it is an odorless gas. Thus, a technician should be called if you smell gas in your home to make sure that you do not have a leak. Thus, with all of this winter weather, just take a little time to be extra cautious.


Teresa Wiley
Family and Consumer Science Agent