Safety tips for safe gas usage

Ensure that your loved ones and home is safe when using use gas-related heating methods. There’s nothing better than walking into your home after a bitterly cold day and turning on your gas heater. It’s warm and cost-effective but it can also be dangerous. According to the Liquefied Petroleum Gas Association of South Africa (LPGAS), gas can be the cause of serious safety and security risks for the public and they should therefore always use it with caution. Take note of the following safety precautions provided for by the association:

• Always read and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines carefully
• Always ensure that the room in use is well ventilated so that there is a continuous supply of fresh air.
• When changing the cylinder, first close the cylinder valve and then remove the regulator.
• Ensure all the components of your unit are well maintained e.g. the heater, regulator, hose and hose connections.
• Test any gas appliance or heater for possible leaks by spraying a soap-water solution on all connections. Leaks will show in the form of bubbles and must be repaired immediately.
• Do not use aerosols or flammable, cleaning liquids or sprays close to the heater.
• Avoid sitting or standing too close to your heater. A safe distance would be approximately one metre.
• Educate children on the safe use of gas appliances and never leave them without supervision in a room where an appliance is located.
• Always turn your heater off at the cylinder valve whenever you are not using it.
• If you suspect a gas leak, turn off the gas cylinder immediately and, if possible, take the heater and cylinder outside.

For more information on the safe use of LPGas, visit the website of the LPGas Safety Association (www.lpgas.co.za) or contact the association on 011 886 9702.