Be Aware of Carbon Monoxide Dangers Posed By Improper Use of Portable Propane Heaters.

When winter storm warnings are issued, a last-minute scramble for storm survival gear and supplies to keep warm during a power outage may not only leave you empty handed and cold, but also the raise the possibility of using a portable propane space heater that is not designed for indoor use – and that could place you at risk of carbon monoxide(CO) poisoning.

Portable gas-fired propane products burn and consume oxygen for combustion and give off carbon monoxide. If these products are used in an enclosed unventilated space, it can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, sleepiness and confusion. Carbon monoxide reduces the blood’s ability to carry oxygen and low oxygen levels in the blood could result in the loss of consciousness and death.

According to Campsafe.org, consumers need to know the difference between propane-fueled products that are safe for indoor use and those that are for outdoor, open-air use only.

When purchasing a portable propane heater, be sure to read all product packaging carefully to find out if a heater is identified as safe for indoor use. Indoor-safe portable propane heaters should have an oxygen depletion sensor device that will automatically shut off the heater when the oxygen in the surrounding space drops to an unsafe level. These heaters should also include a tip-over shutoff feature.

Outdoor-only propane products like heaters that mount on 20-pound propane tanks, camp stoves, lanterns, and grills, are designed for use outdoors, in freely ventilated areas. They should never be used inside, especially while sleeping. Before using any gas-fired propane appliance, carefully read all product packaging, operating instructions, safety guidelines and proper use and storage information before operating.

In addition, it is against most fire regulations to use a 20-pound barbecue style propane tank indoors. However, one-pound (16oz) propane canisters can be used indoors for fueling an indoor-safe portable heater.

If you want to have safe, temporary emergency heat available in case of a heavy snow storm or power outage, a portable propane heater that is identified on the packaging and instructions for safe indoor use is your best safeguard for eliminating the threat of carbon monoxide poisoning. As an extra safety measure, you should also open a window to allow fresh air to circulate, no matter how cold it is outside.”

Before a winter storm or power outage puts you to the test try preparing in advance by making a checklist of supplies that you may need during a storm so you’ll be ready when the heavy weather hits. These may include:

• Indoor-safe portable heat source
• LED Lanterns, Flashlight and extra batteries
• Portable radio
• Cell phone
• Bottled water and extra dry and canned foods
• Portable propane camp stove and 16 oz. propane canisters
  (For emergency use during power outage)
• Extra medicine and baby items
• Extra blankets or comforters
• First aid supplies
• Carbon Monoxide (CO) and smoke detectors

Indoor-safe portable propane heaters are available from national outdoor retailers, home center stores and hardware chains. For more information on storm survival, visit Ready.gov/winter-weather.