Both emit heat via different power sources. There is no safer option. It all really just boils down to how you handle it with care, and the safety features integrated into the unit also help make the product safe to use. However, it is important to note that electric heaters have somewhat of an advantage due to the fact that they do not emit carbon monoxide during operation, unlike gas heaters that use combustion and therefore release carbon monoxide into the air, which can be toxic when inhaled.