You're right, kerosene is something of a witches' brew in itself. It's certainly useful to know that paint thinner can pinch-hit, with the usual reasonable precautions.

My main question, really, is the safety of paint thinner in kerosene heaters, which are often used indoors in an emergency and with partial venting at best. Can they handle the "high-test" stuff? Would they run too hot? Perhaps an experienced user has some direct experience to share.

I know that my old MSR XGK stove will burn everything from diesel fuel to stoddard solvent. I assume paint thinner is closer to the solvent. But that's an open-air activity, and with oddball fuels I would always use a well-covered pot. Diesel fumes won't improve the mac and cheese.

Meanwhile, I'm going to try paint thinner in my Dietz Air Pilot lantern, bought cheap after the Y2K bust. Might as well; I'd rather roller-skate through Hades than paint an interior wall.

P.S., don't Brits call kerosene "paraffin" and gasoline "petrol?"