Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the importance of safety during the heating season in China's central and eastern regions, highlighting the risks associated with various heating appliances and methods, including electric blankets, electric water bags, gas, and coal stoves [1][2][3][6]. Electric Heating Appliances - Electric blankets have a typical safe usage lifespan of 6 years, after which the risk of electrical faults increases significantly [1] - Users are advised to check the power cord, plug, and temperature controller before first use each year, and to ensure the blanket is not left on unattended [1] - Electric water bags should be replaced every 1 to 2 years, with older models posing explosion risks due to direct contact of electrodes with liquid [2] - "Little Sun" electric heaters can reach surface temperatures of nearly 600 degrees Celsius, necessitating careful placement away from flammable materials [2] - A general safety habit of "turning off electricity when leaving" is recommended for all electric heating devices [2] Gas Heating Safety - The use of gas in winter increases risks due to low temperatures and closed spaces, which can lead to gas leaks and carbon monoxide poisoning [3] - Residents are advised to use metal corrugated pipes for gas connections and to regularly check for leaks using soapy water [3] - Installing gas alarms can help detect gas leaks early and prevent potential explosions or fires [3][4] - Proper gas usage includes ensuring ventilation when cooking or using gas heaters to avoid gas accumulation [5] Coal Stove Safety - In rural areas, the use of coal stoves poses risks of incomplete combustion and carbon monoxide poisoning, especially in poorly ventilated spaces [6] - It is crucial to install coal stoves away from flammable materials and in well-ventilated areas [6] - Quality of fuel is important; only purchase smokeless coal from reputable sources and avoid burning wet or garbage [7] - Maintaining proper ventilation during coal burning is essential, with recommendations to keep windows slightly open even when the stove is not in use [7]

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the importance of safety during the heating season in China's central and eastern regions, highlighting the risks associated with various heating appliances and the need for proper usage and maintenance to prevent accidents [1]. Group 1: Electric Heating Appliances - Electric heating devices such as electric blankets, electric water bags, and "little sun" heaters are essential for many households during winter, but improper use can lead to safety hazards [2]. - Electric blankets typically have a safe usage lifespan of about 6 years; after this period, the risk of electric leakage and short circuits increases significantly [2]. - It is recommended to check the power cord, plug, and temperature controller of electric blankets before first use each year, and to disconnect power when not in use [2]. - Electric water bags should be replaced every 1 to 2 years, and users should be cautious of older models that may pose explosion risks due to direct contact of electrodes with liquid [3]. - "Little sun" heaters can reach surface temperatures of nearly 600 degrees Celsius, necessitating careful placement away from flammable materials and regular checks for damage [3]. Group 2: Gas Safety - The use of gas in winter poses risks due to low temperatures and increased usage frequency, which can lead to gas leaks and carbon monoxide poisoning [5]. - Residents are advised to use metal corrugated pipes for gas connections and regularly check for leaks using soapy water [5]. - Installing gas alarms can help detect low concentrations of combustible gases and prevent potential explosions or fires [5][6]. - Proper gas usage methods include ensuring ventilation when cooking or using gas water heaters and following the "light first, then open gas" principle to prevent gas leaks [7]. Group 3: Coal Stove Safety - In rural areas and high-altitude regions, reliance on coal stoves for heating can lead to fire hazards and carbon monoxide poisoning due to poor ventilation [9]. - It is crucial to install coal stoves away from flammable materials and ensure proper ventilation during use [9][10]. - Users should purchase quality coal from reputable sources and avoid burning wet or garbage materials, which can produce toxic gases [10]. - Maintaining a proper airflow by keeping windows slightly open during coal burning is essential to prevent gas accumulation [10].

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the importance of safety during the heating season in China's central and eastern regions, highlighting the risks associated with various heating methods such as electric blankets, electric heaters, gas, and coal stoves, and providing safety recommendations to mitigate these risks [1][2][3][4][6]. Electric Heating Devices - Electric blankets have a typical safe usage lifespan of 6 years, after which the risk of electrical faults increases significantly. Users are advised to check the power cord, plug, and surface for any damage before use [1][2]. - Electric heating pads should be replaced every 1 to 2 years, and users should be cautious of older models that may pose explosion risks. Safe models can be identified by their internal structure [2]. - "Little Sun" electric heaters can reach surface temperatures of nearly 600 degrees Celsius, necessitating careful placement away from flammable materials. These devices should be replaced after approximately 3 years of use [2]. Gas Heating Safety - The use of gas in winter poses risks due to potential leaks from aging rubber hoses and the increased likelihood of carbon monoxide poisoning in closed environments. A recent incident highlighted the dangers of gas leaks leading to explosions [3][4]. - Recommendations include using metal corrugated hoses, installing gas alarms, and ensuring proper ventilation when using gas appliances to prevent accidents [3][4][5]. Coal Stove Safety - In rural areas, the use of coal stoves can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning if not properly ventilated. A tragic incident was reported where improper use of a coal stove resulted in fatalities due to carbon monoxide accumulation [6][7]. - Safety measures include installing coal stoves in well-ventilated areas, maintaining clear space around the stove, and ensuring proper fuel quality to minimize toxic gas production [6][7]. Regular maintenance and cleaning of the stove and chimney are also crucial [7].