LPG has made cooking cleaner and faster in crores of Indian homes. Used correctly, it is very safe. But a careless moment can cause a leak or fire. Here are simple safety tips based on guidance from oil marketing companies.
When you receive a new cylinder
- Check that the seal and safety cap are intact.
- Ask the delivery person to weigh the cylinder if you have doubts.
- Look at the test due date marked on the cylinder’s inner side of the ring. It uses a letter for the quarter (A to D) and two digits for the year. Do not accept a cylinder past this date.
- Ask the delivery person to check for leaks when connecting.
Placing the cylinder
- Always keep the cylinder upright, on a flat floor.
- Keep it in a well ventilated place, never in a closed cabinet without airflow.
- Keep the stove on a platform higher than the cylinder.
- Keep it away from heat sources and electrical switches.
Hose and regulator
- Use only ISI marked rubber or suraksha hoses.
- Keep the hose short and visible, not behind the stove.
- Replace a cracked or hardened hose at once.
- Turn off the regulator when not cooking, especially at night or when going out.
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While cooking
- Light the matchstick or lighter first, then turn on the burner knob.
- Do not leave cooking unattended.
- Avoid loose synthetic clothes near the flame.
- Keep children away from the stove.
How to spot a leak
LPG has no natural smell. A strong smelling chemical is added so leaks can be noticed. If you smell gas:
- Do not switch any electrical switch on or off.
- Do not light a match, lighter or stove.
- Turn off the regulator and put on the safety cap if possible.
- Open all doors and windows.
- Go outside and call the emergency helpline.
Emergency helpline
The LPG emergency helpline number for all oil companies is 1906. It works across the country.
Periodic inspection
Oil companies offer a mandatory safety inspection of your LPG installation by your distributor at regular intervals. Allow only authorised mechanics to service your connection.
Insurance cover
LPG customers are covered under a group insurance policy taken by oil marketing companies for accidents caused by LPG at registered premises. Inform your distributor quickly if an accident happens.
Bottom line
Keep the cylinder upright, use a good hose, turn off the regulator after use and remember 1906. These simple habits keep every kitchen safe.
Source / स्रोत: Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Indian Oil (Indane), Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation
