10 ways to prevent gas accidents

Winter in Pakistan comes with its own set of challenges and issues. Especially in the north, keeping yourself warm is a struggle and cold water for bathing is a nightmare. But there is another issue that has been doing the most damage to many people at this time: gas accidents.

In the twin cities alone, last winter, some 3 families’ lives have been claimed because of gas leakages and/or lighting a matchstick at the wrong moment. Around 20 people on average have been burnt due to gas explosions while cases of carbon monoxide poisoning have been continuously rising. Many of these deaths are tragic as they take away a lot of lives in one swoop, but the good news is that these can be prevented. A lot of good is done when one small thing is taken care of, and this article will explain the various ways of protecting yourself and your family/friends.

1. Know the timings for gas load-shedding

This is something that you should figure out on your own or ask around your neighborhood. In most parts of the city, gas supply is decreased at certain times of the day. Though timings will vary depending upon where you live, keep the main ones in memory. In fact, it will help you in figuring out which chores to do and when to take a bath.

2. Turn off all gas appliances before you go to bed

Whether there is gas load shedding at night or your house is cold, everything must be closed off at the time you are preparing for bed. Many deaths occur as people leave the heater on or forget to turn off the knob on the stove when there is no gas around. As simple as it sounds, you will be saving yourself and others big time. Always go around the house to make sure no heater or stove is left on.

3. Check for gas leakages cautiously

If you suspect that the gas has leaked or the room is smelly because of too much gas clogged in a room, never strike a match to test it out. If the gas catches fire, there can be an explosion big enough to cause damage to life and property. Instead, use soap to check for any leakages. If bubbles arise from that soap, it means that the gas may have spread around the room. Open all doors and windows for the gas to spread outside. And remember: be cautious!

4. Close down the gas channels during load shedding

Turn off all gas appliances at once and don’t turn on the geyser at this time. This is a precaution that will pay you off finely in the long run, as leaving them on leaves everyone on the house in danger the minute the gas comes back and reacts with fire.

5. Retain the warmth in your home

Sure, there is no gas, but that doesn’t mean that you leave all the doors open so the cold air can come back in again. Do not open windows or doors except slight amounts for ventilation. Retaining warmth will mean that you won’t have to use gas again to heat your house. This is positive for your health and you bill. Which brings us to our next point:

6. Consider the size of your rooms

If you have a small room and there is a heater there, keep the door open for at least half an hour when the heater is turned on. That way, the room will not heat up so much that you will feel dizzy nor will you suffer from carbon monoxide poisoning. For larger rooms like the living room, consider closing some doors or rooms that are farthest from them. This way you can keep the house warm.

7. Know symptoms for Carbon Monoxide poisoning

If you use gas appliances at home, you need to be able to identify any dangerous situation. Symptoms for carbon monoxide include a “dull” headache, blurred vision, nausea and dizziness. If you get these during the winters, do not lay them off as common happenings. Immediately consult a doctor.

8. Install all instant geysers outside of the house

If you install any geyser near the house or inside the bathroom, you run the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, that is a common killer during winter. Keep them outside so the gas doesn’t gather in one place, which can be pretty lethal.

9. Don’t huddle too close to the heater

Many of us have a habit of sitting or sleeping near the heaters to keep ourselves warm. Despite how cozy it sounds, there are several risks; you the run the risk of getting yourself on fire. Even if you really feel cold, sit at least three feet away from the heater for safety.

10. Maintenance is key

Checking up on how your geysers, stoves and heaters are doing is absolutely essential. Find the leakage before the leaked gas finds you. This simple precaution can diminish the risk of a gas accident significantly.

You can never be too careful or too safe. Perform all these precautions at these times and remind other members of your family to do the same. You will be doing a great service to yourself and your loved ones by keeping all gas-related accidents at bay. Keep warm and stay safe!

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