The Propane Heaters

There are people on both sides of the fence about the safety of propane heaters regarding the amount of deadly carbon monoxide that is released into the atmosphere. Reportedly, there have been at least 80+ deaths as a result of the use of propane heaters in inappropriate spaces.

One of the arguments used by the anti-propane heater groups is that the manufacturers of the heaters that are used in campers, trailers and small homes do not significantly alarm the user as to the deadly possibilities. In their argument, they feel neither the tags attached to the heaters nor indifferent salespersons warn buyers sufficiently about their danger.

On the other side, pro-propane heater groups argue that the warnings that are attached to the sides of the heaters, as well as the use instructions that come with the heater, specifically warn the user of the dangers of not complying with the information disclosed.

This argument arose as propane heaters began to be used more and more as heating sources in enclosed spaces. Originally made for campers and hunters, the propane heaters were a source to provide heat instead of a campfire, or in addition to a campfire.

More and more, campers and hunters were taking the heaters inside the tents while they slept. This, of course, could and has resulted in the death of those in the tent.

Most propane heaters warn they are for outdoor and ventilated areas only. Ventilated does not mean a bedroom where the air is not being replenished with fresh air.

The propane heater can over-heat and release deadly carbon monoxide into the room. Since it is an odorless gas there is no warning for that the user is in a deadly situation.

Someone who uses a propane heater in a garage with the door open, or opens it occasionally for fresh air, or uses it in a work room that is not heated, but has access to fresh air through and open door or window, can be considered safe. But, if you close the door or window, you are risking your life from the carbon monoxide emitted.

Although the issue has received a lot of press, thereby spreading the word about the dangers, there are still those uneducated in the proper use of propane heaters. If you know someone who is using one, warn them or tell them to go on-line to learn about the dangers associated with the use of propane heaters.

Are Propane Heaters Safe For Indoor Use?