Gas is possibly very important in our lives. We rely on gas for boiling, cooking hot meals, fires to keep ourselves warm. However, without proper knowledge on gas safety it can turn out to be disastrous. This article will provide you with important gas safety tips to ensure that you, your family and investment stays safe from gas related accidents:
Why is it important to learn about gas safety tips?
Gas powered appliances or pipes can leak and emit gases which are a highly poisonous to both humans and animals as well. In addition, the gases are highly flammable and explosive in high concentrations. These gases can cause significant damage not only to your property but to human life as well. Therefore, it does not matter whether you are a tenant, or a home owner, you should learn the basics of gas safety.
Gas safety tips
1. Understand the type of gas appliances present in your home
It’s important to find out if there have been recent changes to your gas system so you know if there are past problems with the system. This way you will be able to tell if they were repaired. If the gas has been exposed to flooding or any external factor, this can be dangerous if not rectified.
2. Learn how your gas system works
Be aware of all your gas system components, how it is protected and its condition. Also, be aware of the underground pipe placement, fitting and tubing in your property. Be conscious of the location of gas relief valve and how it works.
3. Maximize property protection against gas leak accidents
There are several things that you can do to protect yourself and your whole family:
· Record an inventory of all gas appliances and pipes. With this you will be able to detect leaks with ease in case of an emergency.
· Learn how to turn off all gas inlets and outlets.
· If you use natural gas, be familiar with gas smell for it smells like a rotten egg.
· Purchase and install carbon monoxide alarm.
· Carryout gas leak checks regularly with the help of a reliable plumbing or gas company.
4. Have a professional top fix your gas appliances
It is good to always use a registered and licensed gas safety engineer to fix and check all your gas appliances. This will surely help you remain safe all through.
5. Check gas appliances warning signs
If your gas appliances are not working properly, they usually burn with lazy yellow flames. They should burn with crisp blue flames. If you notice dark stains around the appliances or too much condensation in your home, call gas experts to check on your system.
6. Use gas appliances for the intended purposes
Each gas appliance is made for a specific function. Therefore, don’t use an oven to heat a room or use gas barbecue inside your house or workplace. This can cause accidents.
7. Keep gas appliances areas clean
You should keep the areas around gas appliances and equipments clean and unblocked to allow proper flow of air.
8. Follow manufacturer instructions
Every gas appliance and equipment comes with instructions to be followed. As you use it ensure you follow all safety instructions.
9. React appropriately in case of gas leak
Whenever you notice any gas leak in your home, follow the following safety tips:
· Leave the building immediately and call gas experts.
· Do not dare use any electrical device such as switching on the lights. This is because they could spark and ignite causing fire breakout.
· Do not use any lighter such as matches.
· Do not start a vehicle.
· Do not re-enter the building until the experts tells you it is safe to do so.
· If natural gas ignites, leave it to burn. Do not try to put of the flame because burning gas will not explode.
10.Store gas appliances safely
Don’t ever store chemicals or combustible materials near gas appliances.
Gas safety is everyone’s responsibility. Follow the above gas safety tips and protect yourself, your investment and those around you!
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