Abstract: This invention relates to a portable heating and humidifying device which is effective in giving emergency therapy for accidental hypothermia. The device includes a charcoal fuel element heater (2;31) which is integrated-with a moisturized element (1;32), so that heated air from the heater (2;31) is humidified by being passed through the moisturized element (1;32). The moisturized element contains a body (11;38) of water absorbent material, such as fibre wadding or foamed polymer. The body (11;38) of water absorbent material is contained within a heat conducting first housing (10;41), so as to leave a first airspace (13;41) between substantial parts of the outer surface of the body (11;38) and the inner surface of the first housing (10;41). The first housing (10;42) is arranged within a heat insulating second housing (15;50) defining a second airspace (16;45) through which dry warm air is transported to the face of person breathing the humidified air.

Abstract: A method of making priming devices for a fuel element is disclosed. A high quality priming device is obtained by treating suitable pieces of cellulose with catalyzing agents such as manganates or permanganates and with oxidizing agents such as inorganic oxidizing salts. Such priming devices are very reliable and may be used in portable personnel heaters, e.g. to keep injured people warm after accidents.