ER24 has shared some gas safety tips to ensure you stay warm without any health and life risks.
As winter creeps in we prepare to take out our gas heaters to warm up our homes. Gas heaters are an excellent source of affordable warmth but have the potential to harm you and your family.
ER24 has found it necessary to educate residents on how to avoid and deal with gas-related life-threatening risks. These risks include gas leaks, fires, explosions, carbon monoxide poisoning and lack of adequate ventilation.
General tips:
- If you smell the gas, close the valve and ensure that the cylinder is connected properly or have it checked by a reputable dealer
- Do not attempt to repair any leaking valves or systems on your own
- Only utilise gas appliances for their intended use
- Be attentive to small children around gas appliances
- Always leave a window or ventilation shaft open to ensure adequate ventilation in the room
- Do not use gas appliances in confined spaces such as small bedrooms.
Gas purchasing:
- Buying a gas cylinder should be purchased from a reputable/authorised dealer
- Ensure that the logo on the valve seal matches the logo on the cylinder
- Filling or exchanging your gas cylinder should be done at the place of purchase or through a reputable dealer.
Maintenance of gas cylinders:
- Service your gas cylinder regularly – approximately every two years or as stated by the manufacturer
- If the cylinder has been disconnected and reconnected, make sure the bullnose or O-ring is in place
- Ensure that the hose is not perished, cracked or brittle.
Installation of gas appliances and cylinders:
- For large or fixed appliances, ensure that the installation is done by a licenced or registered installer
- Before the gas cylinder is fitted, remember to ask for the installer’s business card and details. This card identifies their qualifications
- Gas cylinders need to be installed one or more metres from a door or window.
Signs or symptoms from gas poisoning may include:
- Headaches
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dizziness
- Eye and throat irritation
- Fatigue
- Confusion.
If you feel you have been exposed to a gas leak, evacuate the area and call emergency services. For medical emergencies, contact ER24 on 084 124.
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