Safely Handling Oil Lanterns
When using oil lanterns, it's important to follow simple guidelines to ensure safe operation. Oil lanterns produce flames. Take all logical and common-sense precautions to ensure fire safety. Safety takes on added importance when children and pets are present.
Every home should be equipped with fire extinguishers.
Select a safe, reliable fuel designed for use in an oil lantern. Never use highly ignitable substances such as gasoline, alcohol, diesel fuel, mineral spirits, acetone, propane, paint thinners, household cleaners, or turpentine.
Place the lantern in a location where it‘s less likely to be bumped or knocked over.
The chimney will get very hot, even after the lantern has been extinguished for a while. Use caution touching it until the chimney has cooled.
The heat radiating from the top of the chimney can ignite flammable materials too close to it.
Keep oil lanterns out of young children's reach.
Never leave oil lanterns in unattended areas; a responsible adult should supervise their use.
Don‘t add oil to a burning or hot lantern.
An oil lantern will give off some carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide detectors in your home are advised.
Use the lantern in an open area with good air circulation.
Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for your oil lantern to ensure safe operation.
Travel Tips
Extreme care needs to be taken when transporting the Peace Light in a moving vehicle.
Be sure the candle or lantern is secure and will travel safely without intervention from the driver. Click the link to the right for instructions to build a simple lantern carrier.
Place the lantern or candle in a container that can absorb and/or contain fuel or candle wax in case the flame tips over. A bucket of sand or small pebbles will work.
If using a lantern, use clean-burning odor-free fuel.
Carry a fire extinguisher and carbon monoxide detector in the car.
Leave a window open a small amount to ensure adequate ventilation.
If possible, have a passenger in the car who can keep an eye on the Peace Light.
