DURING the winter season, especially when it is at its peak in the northern parts of Pakistan, there is always a run on liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) that keeps the heaters functional in homes and offices to cope with the spine-chilling, freezing weather. Unfortunately, these heaters and cylinders are not only fire hazards, but also threaten people’s lives.

Many have died in gas cylinder explosions or due to asphyxiation in the wake of carbon monoxide emission from these substandard appliances. Carbon monoxide is an odourless, poisonous gas that kills many people every year. Furthermore, these incidents entail substantial monetary losses. How can we avoid or minimise the detrimental effects of these appliances?

First, it’s important to select good and reliable cylinders, and install them in open spaces to ensure safety. Substandard gas cylinders are easily available at low prices, but they cannot handle the intensive gas pressure inside and blow away.

Second, we need to be extra cautious while using heaters and gas cylinders and need to turn them off timely, especially before going to bed, to keep ourselves safe. Some heaters may cause carbon monoxide build-up in closed places. People keep their heaters turned on while sleeping, which accumulates carbon monoxide and leads to tragedies.

Shakil Ahmad
Gilgit

Published in Dawn, March 9th, 2022