Deer Hunter Catches Fire, Dies

An 84 year-old deer hunter in Minnesota died after falling from a tree, when his clothes caught fire, while attempting to light a propane heater.

A good reminder to “dry run” all heaters by checking hoses, connections for leaks, igniters, etc. I have found that mice will chew through the rubber propane supply lines, and if the tank had not been shut off, all the gas will be gone.

Check connections with a solution of soap and water.

To ignite, have the lit match or igniter ignited when the gas is turned on and make sure to stay away from the heater element – especiall over the top of it. Keep clothing away.

Since igniters are noisy, we keep a good supply of dry, “strike anywhere” wood matches handy by enclosing them in a pill bottle fastened by electrical tape to the heater’s frame.  They can be dipped in hot wax for long-term storage and resistance to moisture.

Ventilation is required to be safe.

http://www.duluthnewstribune.com/event/article/id/213959/