I can't comment on other devices but our experience with this model consists of sending one to Mom in S. Florida. Over about 10 years it served to heat meals and make coffee for her and some neighbors during hurricane season if the power went out.
The butane fuel canisters, sold separately, require a Hazmat label that adds quite a bit to the shipping. You're better off visiting the big box home improvement stores to buy fuel. I'd also consider snagging a 12" slate tile as a buffer underneath the unit.
The butane canisters have a long history of use in a variety of applications. You can bet that fed.gov would be all over these things if there was any negative history. The biggest in-use concern would be adequate ventilation. In a small confined space the flame would be competing with you for the available oxygen. Crack a window open for a few minutes or open the door into the hallway.
Thanks very much, especially for the tip about shipping costs.
Coincidentally, my brother called yesterday (he’s about 25 miles NW of us, and getting the storm even worse)and he’d just bought a new one.
I’ll get one as soon as we can get out.
-JT