Liquefied Petroleum Gas, or LPG, is an indispensable component in many households. However, not everybody is aware of the safety risks and conservation issues that surround it. Being a flammable gas, LPG is potentially hazardous. In uncontrolled situations and in concentrated amounts, LPG can cause fires and explosions. That's why it is critical that consumers understand its content properties and the safety measures involved with its use, especially in the household environment.

On the other hand, in these present times when fuel prices are intermittently rising and causing a domino effect on many markets, consumers should also be aware of LPG usage efficiency information to help alleviate the global crisis on fuel.

What Makes Up LPG?

LPG is a mixture of saturated hydrocarbons — propane gas and butane gas. There are LPG varieties that are mostly propane gas, some are mostly butane gas, and some are mixes containing both propane gas (60%) and butane gas (40%), which is the most common variety. LPG mixtures are stored under pressure. If not sealed properly, the gas or liquid will leak from any connections or joints. Also, when subjected to intense heat of a sufficient duration, it can combust and catch fire.

Simple Safety Measures

LPG is one of the most common cooking fuel sources in a lot of countries. Though it has its risks, it is generally safe as long as simple safety rules are observed.

1. Choose a trusted LPG supplier that provides high quality LPG cylinders and reliable after-sales support. Ensure that the cylinders are odourised, so leakages can be easily detected.

2. Use only LPG appliances and other equipment that pass local safety standards.

3. Always close the cylinder valves after each use. Use a child-safe regulator for domestic use.

4. Replace LPG cylinder hoses on a regular basis. Immediately replace damaged or worn out hoses with a new one.

5. Always keep the cylinder standing upright. Make sure that the hose connections do not come into contact with, or even get near, the gas burner.

6. Check for gas leaks on a regular basis. Use soapy water and look for bubbles coming from around valves and pipe joints. Bubbles indicate leaks.

7. If you do smell or find a gas leak, turn off the gas supply valve from the cylinder. If possible, switch off the stove as well. Remove all possible sources of ignition, and open doors and windows to ventilate the room. Leave the house or apartment, and advise the neighbors. If you think that a fire is imminent, call the fire service.

Reducing Consumption

To help in the overall conservation of fuel, there are a number of ways to cut down LPG use. When cooking, keep all the ingredients ready before lighting the burner. Cover cooking vessels - it makes cooking faster and keeps flavors intact. Use a small vessel on a small burner. When there's an interruption while cooking, turn off the LPG first and relight the burner when cooking again. Also, don't waste LPG by re-heating food, use a microwave oven instead.