Using propane or fuel oils while camping? Beware!

When camping, it is not unusual for families and individuals to bring along a generous amount of propane, lighter fluid, or some other form of liquid fuel as part of their vital supplies. These materials can be wonderful for assistance in starting campfires on dark and chilly evenings, fueling lanterns, or cooking meals on a portable stove. However, when not handled with care, these items can be very dangerous. In addition to posing a threat to the safety of your loved ones, using these fuels improperly can quickly lead to wildfires that rage out of control. It is a good idea to familiarize yourself and all members of the family with some basic safety precautions that should be observed when using fuels of this kind.

These products do not even have to be burning to create a health threat. Pack all of your food, water, and bodily products separately from the container housing your fuels. Any amount of leakage can quickly contaminate water and food supplies. When there are children involved, be sure there are adults present at all times that there is a fire or these products are in use. When the cooking is done, it is also wise to store these items in a place that children will have no access to them.

You should also pay attention to the fuel recommendations of manufacturers for stoves, lanterns, and other combustible products. Using the wrong fuel can be extremely damaging to the products themselves and anyone surrounding them when they are in use. There is the potential for harmful gases or even explosions when the wrong type of fuel is being used. Despite the level of caution that one takes, accidents can always happen, however. In order to further protect yourself, keep a healthy supply of firefighter products on hand. These fire fighting products should include items like fire extinguishers, a generous amount of spare water, and fire-retardant blankets.

Propane fuels can present dangers that may not be as obvious as other liquid fuels. When using propane-based products, check for leaks before you attempt to light the equipment. The stove should also only be used in areas that are well ventilated and clear of any extremely flammable objects. Once the cooking is complete, you should be sure that you allow an adequate amount of time for the equipment to cool before it is packed away. As Smoky the Bear always taught us, fire safety begins with you.

For more information please contact Kidron at +972-4-6931271 or visit http://www.youtube.com/user/KidronFire.