Have you ever wondered what you would do in case of a situation where your kitchen gas cylinder catches fire?
Several factors can cause kitchen gas cylinder fires; from gas leakage to corrosion on the gas cylinder.
Here is what to do and what not to do incase your cylinder catches fire
What to do
Evacuate immediately: After leaving the kitchen, shut the door behind you. If the fire cannot be put out immediately, evacuate the building.
Choose the stairs over elevators.
Call emergency services: Alert fire emergency services, and provide them with information about the situation.
Give your exact location, and follow any instructions they issue.
In Nairobi, the fire department can be reached through; 0202222181 or 0202344599.
Alert other people in the building: Make sure everyone else in the building knows to leave. To ensure everyone is aware of the threat, shout or speak clearly and loudly.
Wait for professionals: Await the arrival of emergency personnel in the fire department. They are equipped and trained to deal with gas fires safely.
What to avoid
Don't panic: Avoid sudden movements or loud noises that could escalate the situation.
Try to remain calm and composed. Panic can hinder your ability to think clearly and act effectively.
Do not use water: Never use water to extinguish a gas fire as it can make the situation worse. Water can cause the gas to spread or create a steam explosion.
Do not attempt to extinguish the fire: Ordinary fire extinguishers are not effective for gas fires. They may not be designed to handle flammable gases, and attempting to use one might make the situation worse.
Understanding the causes is crucial to preventing such situations and knowing how to react appropriately when they do happen.