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Kerosene heaters are a big hit on many farms because they’re efficient, economical, portable and clean burning.

They’re also a serious fire hazard if you’re not careful. Millions of dollars in property damages were blamed last year on kerosene heaters, but the real cause usually was "user error."

It’s easy to take for granted the safe operation of a kerosene heater. But to prevent a fire, it’s good to keep a few basics in mind.

Use only kerosene fuel. Accidentally contaminating kerosene fuel with gasoline is the leading cause of kerosene fires.

Heaters are designed to burn high quality, clear kerosene. Using other fuels, including gasoline or camping fuel, leads to serious fires. If the fuel isn’t clear or smells like gas, don’t use it. Some other reminders:

• Keep kerosene only in containers clearly marked for kerosene – ideally with blue and white colors to distinguish them from red gasoline cans.
• Don’t lend your container to someone who may use it for anything other than kerosene.
• Store fuel in a cool, dry place out of children’s reach. Don’t keep it next to any source of heat.

Refuel outdoors, after the heater has cooled. Pouring kerosene into a hot heater is like asking for a fire. Refuel with the heater turned off and cooled, and refuel to only 90 percent full because kerosene expands when warm.

Ventilate and keep it away from combustibles. Leave a window ajar, or a door open to an adjoining room to get an exchange of air. Follow manufacturer’s directions, especially those describing ventilation.

Some heater surfaces reach very high temperatures, so keep your heater three feet or more away from drapes, furniture or anything else that could catch fire. And keep children clear to avoid contact burns.

Never leave your kerosene heater burning when you’re away or asleep.

Watch your wick to stop smoke damage. Smoke damage usually results from not taking care of the heater’s wick. Follow written recommendations on wick care and replacement. Wicks are not interchangeable.

Kerosene heaters can be an efficient source of additional heat for your home and farm buildings. Just be careful to keep them burning safely.