7 Important Safety Tips To Observe When Using Gas At Home

Safety Tips To Avoid Gas Explosion At Home

Do you use a gas cooker or keep a gas cylinder at home? Of course, you are one of those who have found amazing benefits in using gas cookers and have experienced over time how fast and convenient it is to use.

However, this has also caused an increase in the rate of gas explosion-related incidences and deaths. While Liquid Petroleum(LP) gas can be very fast, it is also very dangerous. Also, an aspect of the use of gas cookers and gas cylinders demands attention which is the issue of safety, i.e. the protection of lives and property. Though many today are accustomed to the use of gas cookers or cylinders, sometimes mishaps do occur that may lead to disastrous and sad consequences.

There have been countless cases of gas explosions in homes leading to lifetime scars and sometimes death.

There is every probability that you know someone who has been affected.

The image above is that of Chinenye (Stainless Desire) who a few years ago was involved in a ghastly gas explosion in her home. This is the exact reason why proper safety measures should be implemented when using gas.

Below are 7 safety tips to help prevent gas explosions at home:

1. Install an audible smoke detector around your house.

 A fact to be aware of is that having a filled gas cylinder at home invites risk. Most domestic fire outbreaks caused by other factors around the home are not usually detected earlier when there is no detector.

Having a detector at home gives an early warning signal to potential hazards that would only be magnified with the presence of a gas cylinder.

2. Ensure proper storage of the gas cylinder

Gas cylinders are best kept outside but they can be installed indoors. When stored outside, ensure it is kept away from the sun and in a cool area.

Take into consideration if the climate where you live is favourable.

If you live in an area where heavy storms and lightning are frequent, it is advisable that you get the gas cylinder concealed but with proper ventilation to avoid gas leakage.

Storing it indoors requires that you keep the room well-ventilated and away from any heating source. Avoid placing it close to potential sources of electrical ignition such as sockets, flammable substances, or even in areas where you receive transmissions from phone calls, TV, and internet browsing.

Additionally, you should make sure that the cylinder is made to stand on a solid and leveled surface where it is less likely to fall.

Only allow an accredited agent to install gas cylinders for fitted appliances.

3. Never overfill your gas cylinder

Gas cylinders are never filled to capacity to allow for the gas to expand and contract.

If you want to make sure that the cylinder is empty, give it a shake. This will give you an indication of how much liquid is still inside.

Overfilled gas cylinders are a known source of fire risk, which is why it is important to only have cylinders filled or exchanged at an authorised dealer.

4. Safely transport your cylinder.

Never roll a used gas cylinder on the ground regardless of it being empty or not; neither drop it on the ground with force. Transport it while sitting the cylinder upright and with the valve facing upwards. The best position for a cylinder is always vertical and not slanted.

Before transporting the gas, tightly close the valve on the cylinder and remove the regulator. Keep the container upright during transportation and repeat this when returning and fitting a full container.

5. Cook safely

While cooking with gas, ensure that your kitchen is properly ventilated by having the windows opened. Avoid placing plastics, panhandles or flammable items close to the flame.

Never start cooking if you know you would not stay with the food as the flames could build up; food could overflow and extinguish the burner. Ensure to keep the regulator switched off well when the gas cooker is not in use. This is most especially necessary at night or while away at your places of business.

ALSO READ: 5 Ways To Prevent An Air Conditioner Fire

6. Be cautious in case of gas leaks

For obvious reasons, gas needs extra safety precautions. You want to make sure that there are no gas leaks, so anytime you hear a hissing sound or smell gas and can´t tell where it is coming from, do not ignore it, turn off your gas at the regulator, open all windows, and doors to allow the concentrated gas leave.

7. Perform the 5-point safety check at regular intervals

Always get a qualified gas delivery man or distributor to help you perform the 5-point safety check. This is equally necessary when moving to a new home.

The 5-point safety check usually requires the following:

• Checking the regulator to ensure that it is not faulty or worn out. They must not be used for over 5 years. Check the expiry dates.
• Checking the rubber hose to make sure it is neither worn out nor expired.
• Checking the hose clips to ensure that it is firmly secured and in good condition.
• Checking the gas cylinder to ensure that it is free from cracks, dents or rust.
• Checking for gas leaks through the use of liquid soap solution applied on cylinder joints. The presence of bubbles from the soap indicates a gas leakage. Never use a lighter to test for gas leakage.

Additional Tips

1. Replace instead of repairing a faulty cylinder. It is unsafe to repair a faulty gas cylinder.

2. Buy your gas cylinders from a certified LPG plant.

3. Exchange of empty gas cylinders with a full one is best practice instead of refiling from another cylinder.

4. If you are buying an LPG cylinder, look for the Nigerian Industrial Standard number on the body of the cylinder.

5. Keep empty cylinders away from full ones.

6. Do not use aerosols or flammable, cleaning liquids or sprays close to the heater.

7. Avoid the use of phones while cooking.