Camping gear is sold on warmth and convenience, but a heater or lantern that burns fuel makes carbon monoxide (CO), a gas you cannot see or smell. This guide covers what the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) says on its camping equipment page, and what to check on a listing. It covers US advice only, and it is general information, not medical advice: if you feel unwell, get fresh air and see a doctor.

This guide is based on the public source listed below. We have not tested any heater, lantern, tent or store. Our guide to choosing camping and outdoor gear covers sizes and ratings.

What CPSC says

Source: CPSC, "Portable Heaters & Camping Equipment" (Carbon Monoxide Information Center; the page shows no date). Last checked: 17 October 2026.

  • Do not run fuel-burning heaters or lanterns while you sleep in enclosed spaces such as tents, campers or vehicles.
  • Altitude raises the risk. The page says CO poisoning is more likely at high altitudes.
  • Know the warning signs: headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, sleepiness and confusion. CO reduces the blood's ability to carry oxygen, which can lead to unconsciousness and death.
  • It is easy to mistake for a cold or flu, so the page says to see a doctor if symptoms appear while camping.
  • Kerosene heaters: use only water-clear 1-K grade kerosene, and never gasoline.

The page does not discuss indoor-rated heaters, CO alarms or camp stoves, so we do not give advice on them here. Follow the maker's instructions for any product, and check the CPSC's own safety alerts for camping equipment and portable heaters.

What to check on a listing

  1. What fuel does it burn? A product that burns propane, kerosene, gas or charcoal makes CO. Read the warnings, which should say where it may and may not be used.
  2. Where is it meant to be used? Look for wording about outdoor use only, or ventilation requirements. If it is unclear, ask the seller.
  3. Does the listing show the manual and warnings or a link to them?
  4. If you camp at altitude, remember the CPSC says the risk is higher.
  5. Returns and recalls. Check the store's return rules, and check cpsc.gov/recalls before you buy.

What we could not confirm

  • Whether any heater is safe for tent use, CO alarm advice for camping, stove safety and UK or EU rules. A CDC camping page we tried to read returned an error, so we did not use it.

Source: US CPSC, Portable Heaters & Camping Equipment.