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Hello, we are in the process of getting our 1st set of gear together. One of the things that I am looking at is the campingaz blue cat heater.

I am slightly concerned about the safety of these in a tent. They say theres 'no smoke without fire' but I'm hearing theres 'no fire without carbon dioxide'!!!!

Am I being overly cautious? Is it a case of use within a ventilated space....windows/vents open?

Also, are they any good?

Thanks in advance

David

Are you meaning carbon MONoxide, David?  I would have thought the average tent would be draughty enough not to worry, since these burners are designed to work in a tent, and if they work correctly, (which a new one will), there shouldn't be a problem.

I wonder if you can get a Carbon Monoxide alarm which works on batteries, just to put your mind at rest?  Someone here will know.

FoO

Lol yep dont know where 'di' came from there...back to school for me

I was thinking the same about the ventilation being enough, just wanted some user feedback really. The tester idea is a good one, I have one at home so will just pop it in the tent when we go this easter.

Thanks for that FoO

We have the Blue Cat and use it in our Vango Tamor.  We place the heater on a  picnic table and near the door with the zip down on one of the doors a little to make sure no fumes build up.  We used it for the first time last Easter in Scotland and we were warm as toast

Only thing I would add is that ideally you want a mix oh high and low ventilation. Low level would only be an issue with a SIG!

Glen

WHilst I hate to correct anyone...

Carbon Monoxide (molecular weight 28) is almost the same density as air (molecular weight 29) - actually about 3% lighter. In practice it will tend to rise from a warm heater with convection but will be mixed with other gasses from the combustion and will diffuse throughout the tent.

Hence my statement re. needing high and low ventilation!

Glen

Thanks for the input everyone,

I do have a SIG so low level ventilation will be harder to acheive, but as I'm sure you can tell, I am approaching this with some consideration and will ensure there is plenty of airflow. I do only intend on taking the chill off with the heater for 20 mins before the kids get tucked into there sleeping bags.

I am rather glad I posted this question. It has at least confirmed to me that I am not going 'health and safety' mad and other campers have had the same thoughts.

Thanks everyone

David