Following some incidents within the home nationally related to the use of bio-ethanol heaters, Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service has issued the following advice for anyone using these heaters in their home:
- Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and instructions
- Only use bio-ethanol fuel in fireboxes and containers designed for the product
- Bio–ethanol fuel is highly flammable and should only be kept in containers tightly closed and away from any ignition sources
- Fireboxes and containers should always be placed on a stable surface and away from combustible materials
- Never add fuel to a burning fire or overfill a fuel container and never fill up a firebox fuel container that is still hot
- Keep children and pets away from fireboxes and fuel
- Extinguish all fires when leaving a room or garden and before going to sleep
- Always use bio-ethanol fireboxes and containers in a well-ventilated room
- Regularly clean and check fuel containers for damage and never use a leaking one
- Clean away any fuel spills with a damp cloth and dry completely
- Keep your hands, hair, and clothing well clear of any burning flames and fuel
- Always light bio-ethanol fuel with an extended lighter or extra-long match. Never discard matches into the container
Manufacturer’s guidance
Group Commander and Head of Community Fire Safety for Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service, Kevin Napier commented: “It’s really important that people follow the manufacturer’s guidance when using bio-ethanol heaters.”
“As with any naked flame in the home, our advice is to never leave them on unattended and keep them well away from anything which could catch fire.”
