Camping stove safety: How to avoid carbon monoxide and fire risks
Camping stoves are an essential bit of kit for outdoor adventures, but they can also be dangerous if used incorrectly. Over the years, there have been many near-misses and serious incidents, especially when stoves are used inside enclosed spaces like tents and bothies. This guide covers the main risks, how to use stoves safely, and what to check to make sure your stove is working properly.
Article by: Spenser Gray, Chair of the BMC Technical Committee
Please note: it may be risky to use a stove at times of extreme drought when wildfire risk is particularly high.
The main risks of using camping stoves
There have been many incidents of near-misses and incidents with camping stoves over the years, particularly in enclosed spaces such as tents and bothies.
Fire – igniting clothing, tent fabric or nearby equipment.
Trapped escape routes – being unable to get away if a stove malfunctions or is knocked over.
Carbon monoxide poisoning – dangerous gas buildup from incomplete combustion.
Burn injuries – touching or handling a stove before it has cooled down.
Warning signs of carbon monoxide poisoning
After using a stove in an enclosed space, if you or anyone else begins to feel unwell, it could be a sign of carbon monoxide poisoning. Symptoms include:
Light-headedness
Forgetfulness or confusion
Nausea
Dizziness
Headaches
Fatigue
Shortness of breath
If this happens, ventilate immediately by opening a tent door or window to let the gas escape.
Liquid, solid and gas stoves
The use of a liquid fuel stove or a solid fuel stove in such an enclosed space is particularly hazardous due to the lack of fine control over the flame size compared to a gas stove, potential difficulty of escape if the fire were to spread, and the potential for carbon monoxide to be produced through incomplete combustion which is far more common with these types of stove.
The use of gas stoves within enclosed spaces is also discouraged due to potential difficulties escaping if the fire spreads, however it can be done safely where caution is applied and a properly functioning stove is used.
What's the difference between a liquid or solid fuel stove and a gas stove?
Liquid fuel or solid fuel stoves – higher risk due to less flame control, higher chance of fire spreading, and greater likelihood of carbon monoxide buildup.
Gas stoves – generally safer, but still risky indoors. If used in a tent or bothy, you must take extra precautions.
How to use a gas stove safely indoors
If you must use a gas stove in an enclosed space, make sure you:
Place the stove on a stable, flat surface.
Keep the tent well ventilated (open a door or vent).
Never block your only exit with the stove.
Clear away all combustible materials.
Stay mobile (don’t cook while in your sleeping bag).
Remember that flames often rise higher when the pan is removed - turn the stove down or off before lifting pans.
Stove safety checklist: how to confirm it’s working properly
Before lighting your stove, carry out these checks:
Inspect for damage such as loose fixings, pan supports, or perished O-rings. Replace if needed.
Make sure the valve is closed before attaching the canister. Don’t force the threads.
Check the connection is secure and not cross-threaded.
In a ventilated space, briefly turn on the gas to check it’s only coming from the burner, not the seal. Let any escaped gas disperse before lighting.
Once lit, check the flame colour:
🔵 A healthy flame should have a blue base with a slight orange tip.
🟠 A predominantly orange flame signals a malfunction or poor oxygen supply, producing more carbon monoxide. (Note: Orange flames are normal during the preheating stage of multi-fuel/petrol stoves.)
FAQ: Camping stove safety
Is it safe to use a camping stove in a tent?
It’s always safer to cook outside your tent. If you must use a stove indoors due to bad weather, make sure the tent is well ventilated, the stove is stable, and it does not block your only exit. Never use a liquid or solid fuel stove in an enclosed space.
What colour should a camping stove flame be?
A properly functioning gas stove should have a blue flame with a small orange tip. A flame that is mostly orange suggests poor oxygen supply or a malfunction, which can increase the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Can camping stoves cause carbon monoxide poisoning?
Yes. Any stove that burns fuel produces carbon monoxide. If used in a poorly ventilated tent or bothy, this gas can quickly reach dangerous levels. Always ensure good airflow and never sleep with a stove running.
What should I do if I feel unwell when using a stove?
Symptoms such as dizziness, headache, nausea or confusion could mean carbon monoxide is building up. Turn off the stove immediately, open the tent for ventilation, and move into fresh air. Seek medical help if symptoms persist.
How do I know if my stove is safe to use?
Before each trip, check seals, O-rings and connections. Look for leaks, loose fittings and damaged parts. Once lit, observe the flame colour and make sure the stove is stable on the ground.
Final thoughts
Camping stoves make life outdoors easier, but safety must come first. Always prioritise ventilation, escape routes, and regular stove checks to reduce the risk of fire and carbon monoxide poisoning. Stay safe, and happy cooking under the stars!