Fire Safety for Gas

Gas cookers and water heaters

Remember gas and air form an explosive mixture - always be ready to light the burner before you turn on the gas. If the pilot light does not ignite the burner at once, turn off the gas and check that the pilot is alight.
All gas heaters should have a guard on them.

Put out cigarettes.
Do not use matches or naked flames.
Do not operate electrical switches - either on or off.
Open doors and window to ventilate the area.
Check to see if a gas tap has been left on accidentally or if a pilot light has gone out. If not, there is probably a gas leak and you should turn off the supply at the meter and call the gas service.
Don't take chances, at home or in the street. If you suspect a gas leak phone the gas service - look under 'Gas' in your phone book.

Change gas cylinders in the open air wherever possible, and always with the tap turned off.
Always replace the cap on the cylinder valve when the cylinder is empty or not in use.
Keep spare cylinders outside but protected against frost.
Ensure that the flexible hose on your cylinder is suitable for gas and conforms with national standards.

Last updated 03 February 2005