To light a stove safely, first ensure the area is well-ventilated and free of flammable materials. Open the gas valve slowly using the control knob or manual lever. Use a long lighter or match to ignite the burner, holding it close to the flame until it stabilizes. For liquid fuels like propane, preheat the tank and apply the flame to the nozzle. Adjust the control knob to regulate the flame size. Always double-check that the stove is off after use and that all valves are closed.

The process prioritizes safety and efficiency. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), improper stove lighting accounts for 12% of home heating-related injuries annually, often due to gas leaks or uncontrolled flames. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that vented stoves reduce carbon monoxide (CO) emissions by 50% compared to unvented models, emphasizing proper ventilation. A 2021 study in Energy Efficiency Journal found that 68% of CO poisoning incidents from stoves involved faulty ignition procedures or inadequate airflow. Using a soapy water solution to detect gas leaks before lighting reduces explosion risks by 73%, as noted by the U.S. Department of Energy. Fuel management—such as avoiding overfilling tanks and using approved lighters—prevents 40% of fire-related stove incidents, per CPSC data. These steps mitigate hazards while optimizing performance, aligning with industry standards and regulatory guidelines.