Two types of heat sources are used in the organic chemistry teaching labs, steam baths and heating mantles. Steam baths are chosen whenever possible because they are non-electrical and thus are not fire hazards. However, they only heat to the temperature of steam (about 90-100°C in Colorado), and therefore cannot be used in many circumstances.
Heating mantles are used when higher temperatures are needed. You need to be careful when using a heating mantle, since if a flammable solvent falls on it, it could catch fire. Also, handling any electrical equipment involves risk of electrical shock.
