Guidelines for Safely Using Chemical Stoves and Lanterns

Use compressed- or liquid-gas stoves and lanterns only with knowledgeable adult supervision, and in Scout facilities only where and when permitted.

Operate and maintain regularly according to manufacturer's instructions included with the stove or lantern.

Store fuel in approved containers and in storage under adult supervision. Keep all chemical fuel containers away from hot stoves and campfires, and store below 100 degrees F.

Let hot stoves and lanterns cool before changing cylinders of compressed gases or refilling from bottles of liquid gas.

Refill liquid gas stoves and lanterns a safe distance from any flames, including other stoves, campfires, and personal smoking substances. A commercial camp stove fuel should be used for safety and performance. Pour through a filter funnel. Recap both the device and the fuel container before igniting.

Never fuel a stove or lantern inside a cabin; always do this out-of-doors. Do not operate a stove or lantern in an unventilated structure. Make sure there are at least two ventilation openings, one high and one low, to provide oxygen and exhaust for lethal gases. Never fuel, ignite, or operate a stove or lantern in a tent.

Place the stove on a level, secure surface before operating. On snow, place insulated support under the stove to prevent melting and tipping.

Periodically check fittings on compressed-gas stoves and on pressurized liquid-gas stoves for leakage with soap solution before igniting.

When lighting a stove keep fuel bottles and extra canisters well away. Do not hover over the stove when lighting it. Keep your head and body to one side. Open the stove valve quickly for two full turns and light carefully, with head, fingers, and hands to the side of the burner. Then adjust down.

Do not leave lighted stove or lantern unattended.

Do not overload the stovetop with extra-heavy pots or large frying pans. If pots over 2 quarts are necessary, set up a separate grill with legs to hold the pot and place the stove under grill.

Bring empty fuel containers home for disposal. Do not place in or near fires. Empty fuel containers will explode if heated.