Gas safety around the home

Gas is a great source of energy. It is one of the cleanest, safest and most efficient energy sources. It makes it possible for us to cook, keep warm and be clean. But although gas is safe, it is important to use it correctly to avoid putting yourself in any danger.

Below are safe things you can do to ensure the safe use of gas in your house. 

• First and foremost, you have to make sure that you get an accredited company or a trained professional to install, repair and service your gas appliances. Never try to repair or install a gas appliance yourself. Elcon Gas specialises in installing gas equipment.
• Read and make sure you understand and follow the instructions that come with your gas appliances.
• When gas leaks, it releases a rotten egg smell. Other ways to identify if your gas is leaking is if you notice a hissing or whistling sound near a gas line.

Read: Five reasons to invest in a gas stove

If you experience the smell or hear the whistling sound in your house, evacuate the house immediately. Don' t try to find the source of the leakage yourself. Just leave the house immediately and make sure no one remains behind.

When you are at a safe distance from the house, call any fire emergency department. The use of a cellphone when in the house can help spark a fire. So refrain from using cellphones or any electrical pieces of equipment while still in the house.

• Put out other flames if you smell gas or suspect leakage.
• Don't smoke or strike matches next to any gas equipment.
• Never vent gas appliances in the same chimney with wood or coal.
• Never cover the temperature controls, air openings, or vents of a gas appliance.
• Always follow the instructions when connecting and disconnecting appliances from gas cylinders.
• Always make sure that you have closed the gas cylinder completely.
• Turn off gas fireplaces and heaters before going to bed or leaving your home.
• If the flame on your gas stove is any colour besides blue, it might mean there's a problem with the stove or gas. Call a professional to come check out what the issue could be.
• Put anything that could help spark a fire far away from gas stoves, heaters and fireplaces.
• Make sure your children don't play next to any gas appliances.

Elcon Gaz is the leading supplier of Industrial and LP Gas to the industry in KZN. Their customers include companies in the Manufacturing, Steel Fabrication, General Engineering, Construction, Transport & Hospitality industries. Contact them on 031 465 1084 or visit their website www.elcongas.co.za for more information.

Also read: Six uses for gas in your home