Patio heater safety tips

Use Patio Heaters Outside Only

• Propane cylinders should never be stored indoors.
• Cylinders must be stored upright and safeguarded with protection that is tamper-proof and could withstand vehicle impact, such as a locked cage or fenced-in area.
• If you need to store your patio heater indoors for security reasons, remove the propane cylinder first.

Look Up and Around

• Install the heaters according to the manufacturers’ instructions regarding ceiling height clearance and proper distancing from any fire hazards, building openings or mechanical air intakes.
• Fire hazards can be located around, above, or underneath heating units and can include combustible materials such as umbrellas, awnings, tent walls, tablecloths, paper products, decorations, etc.
• Do not position patio heaters next to or in the path of an exit, including fire escapes. Do not obstruct firefighting equipment such as fire hydrants and fire department connections.
• Do make sure that propane cylinders are not stored near operating heaters or smoking areas. A cylinder is in storage when not connected to an appliance

Keep Them Stable

• Make sure heaters are on a stable surface so they do not get knocked over.
• Do not install heaters on grass or an uneven sidewalk, or near the edge of an elevated platform.
• Make sure all free-standing units have an anti-tilt feature.

Move Them with Care

• Never move portable heaters while the flame is lit. Make sure the propane supply is properly shut off and the unit cool before relocating.
• Use caution when moving propane cylinders to avoid dropping or impact.
• Make sure heaters are on a stable surface so they do not get knocked over.

Safely Transport Cylinders

• Disconnect cylinders and plug or cap all outlets before you go.
• Never leave a cylinder in a parked vehicle with the windows up. Heat builds up quickly and could cause an explosive release of propane in the vehicle.
• Always carry the cylinder in an upright position with the safety valve on top.
• Do not transport cylinders in an enclosed space.
• Open windows, a propped open trunk, or a ventilated truck box are safe ways to transport a cylinder.
• Secure the cylinder in the upright position so it cannot tip over while you are driving.
• Do not transport or use propane containers that are damaged, show signs of corrosion, have been exposed to fire, or appear to be leaking.