To light a stove safely and effectively, first ensure proper ventilation by opening windows or using a vented stove hood. Use a long lighter or matches to avoid burns, and ignite the stove’s pilot light or main burner by holding the flame near the control valve. For liquid fuels like propane, preheat the tank and adjust the flame to a steady blue color. Always keep a fire extinguisher or baking soda nearby. Maintain the flame by adjusting the control knob gradually to prevent surging.

The primary risks of improper stove lighting include carbon monoxide poisoning and fire hazards. According to the CDC, carbon monoxide exposure from faulty stoves causes approximately 400 hospitalizations annually in the U.S., with 50 deaths linked to residential heating sources. Poor ventilation exacerbates this risk, as CO accumulates when combustion gases cannot disperse. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that cooking equipment accounts for 17% of home fires, often due to unattended flames or incorrect ignition. Lighting techniques reduce these risks by ensuring complete combustion and minimizing CO emissions. For example, maintaining a blue flame (efficient burning) instead of a yellowish one (incomplete combustion) lowers CO output by up to 60%, per a 2021 study in Applied Energy. Additionally, preheating liquid fuels reduces ignition failures, which account for 23% of stove-related accidents, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Proper flame control also improves fuel efficiency, saving users an average of 15% on propane or natural gas consumption over time. Combining these practices ensures warmth while prioritizing safety and environmental impact.