"Where there's heat there's fire"? It can be very true when it comes to heating! Simple precautions will help avoid problems!

All Appliances

DO's:

- It's a good idea to have a fireguard around any heater - particularly if there are children about! And ALWAYS use a guard around an open fire

- Make sure you know exactly how to operate your heater. If you have questions, ask your dealer or serviceman!

- Read your instruction booklet, and operate it as specified by the manufacturer.

- Keep matches and firelighters away from children - and away from an operating appliance.

- Ensure your appliance is installed according to the appropriate codes, and that the installation has the appropriate permit.

- Have you appliance serviced regularly by an experienced tradesman.

- Use a registered NZHHA installer to install your appliance if it is required by law.

- Consider installing a smoke alarm, and/or a fire extinguisher, irrespective of the type of appliance or fuel you are using.

DON'T :-

-Don't operate the appliance if any part is damaged or not operating normally.

-Dont store combustible materials, such as wood or dried flower arrangements near a heating appliance, and ensure that materials, such as curtains cannot blow against the heater and don't wear loose clothing - such as dressing gowns - near an operating appliance.

-Don't leave a heating appliance operating all night or for prolonged unattended periods, unless the appliance is designed for this type of operation..

-Don't use a heating appliance in a bedroom situation, unless it is designed for such use.

-Don't let young children use a heating appliance, or play nearby without supervision.

-Don't use flammable liquids to light a heater.

Special Considerations for Portable Gas Appliances

* Flueless appliances should not be used in confined spaces. DO NOT use flueless appliances in bathrooms or bedrooms. This is a sure recipe for disaster.

* Make sure any doors on a portable gas appliance are closed properly and that the appliance is secure and unlikely to tip over.

* Make sure to turn the gas control off when you have finished using the appliance .

* Turn off the valve on the gas cylinder after use.

* Make sure all flexible hoses are sound and that they are securely fitted. If hoses need replacement, ask a skilled installer to do this for you!

Special Considerations for Solid Fuel Appliances

* Don't operate the heater with the door open, or with a cracked or broken glass.

* Radiant wood heaters and pot belly stoves get extremely hot.

* If the appliance starts to smoke when the door is opened or in general operation, call for service! It is possible that you have a creosote build up in the flue or chimney.

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