Portable ethanol fireplaces have increased in popularity because they don’t release toxic fumes and are generally safe and easy to use. However, if handled poorly, a portable fireplace can cause serious personal injuries, possible damage to your home, or even a major house fire. Here is what you need to know about safely operating portable fireplaces:
- Children should never be allowed to handle the device and/or fuel. When lit, keep children and pets at a safe distance from the fireplace.
- Place the portable device on a sturdy surface and keep flammable objects at least 4 feet away.
- Always use ethanol fuel made for portable fireplaces. Unlike common alcohols, approved bioethanol emits non-toxic gasses when burned.
- Before lighting the fireplace, clean up any fuel spillage and allow all liquid to fully evaporate.
- To reduce the risk of injury, use long matches or a utility lighter to start the fire.
- Never refuel the fireplace while it’s lit. Wait at least 15 minutes for the device to cool down before refueling.
- Let the device cool down after use. Don’t move the fireplace while it is burning or hot.
- Never leave a lit fireplace unsupervised.
- Always put out the flames before you go to sleep, exit the room or leave the house.
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