The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) has issued a warning to consumers in Pakistan about the potential dangers of using gas appliances, including heaters and stoves. OGRA spokesman Imran Ghaznavi stated in a press release that these appliances can pose serious health risks and have been the cause of many fatal incidents. He emphasized the importance of being extra careful when using indoor gas appliances, particularly during the winter season.
Ghaznavi advised consumers to take necessary precautions to ensure the safe use of these appliances, including regularly servicing gas heaters, ensuring appropriate ventilation, and keeping flammable materials at least one meter away from the heater. He also warned against leaving a gas heater running while going to bed and advised consumers to switch off gas appliances in case of gas load shedding or blackouts.
Ghaznavi also stressed the importance of avoiding the use or storage of solvents, aerosols, or pressure pack cans near a gas heater, as the pilot light may still be on even when the heater is turned off. He advised against disposing of rubbish such as tissue papers or cotton buds in a gas fire, as this can affect combustion and produce dangerous pollutants. Additionally, he warned against using outdoor appliances indoors, such as barbeques or patio heaters, and advised against storing gas cylinders indoors.
In an effort to educate the general public about gas safety, OGRA has initiated a safety campaign through its stakeholders and licensees. The goal of this campaign is to prioritize safety to prevent loss of life and property. Ghaznavi concluded his statement by emphasizing the importance of careful use of gas appliances and the need to be aware of the potential risks associated with their use.
