The one cause of LPG fire is a faulty regulator. Always inspect your regulator regularly and look out for a dry-rotted hose. Also, confirm that your regulator has the approved mark of quality stamp/logo on it for your safety. LPG, which is a highly flammable gas, can lead to fires if mishandled or if there are faults in the system.
One of the most common causes of LPG fires is gas leakage. This can occur due to damaged hose pipe, loose connections, or faulty gas regulator. Even a small leak can lead to a buildup of gas, increasing the risk of a fire or explosion.
If gas escapes from an LPG cylinder, valve, regulator, hose, or gas cooker and mixes with air in the right proportions, it can explode if it catches fire from any source nearby.
It is advisable to regularly inspect your LPG hose pipe and connections for any signs of damage or wear. Use soapy water to check for leaks – bubbles will form if there's a leak. Make sure that all connections are tight and secure.
Do not also overlook storing of LPG cylinders. They should be in an unsafe manner, where they can't pose a fire hazard. Your gas cylinders should be kept in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and flammable materials. Also, you can secure cylinders with chains or straps to prevent them from falling over.
One other thing to know is that, dropping an old, low-quality, or counterfeit LPG cylinder onto a hard surface could cause an explosion if the cylinder breaks where it hits the hard surface.
The impact creates a spark that ignites the spilled LPG, leading to an explosion.
Likewise, slamming an overfilled gas cylinder onto a hard surface increases the vapor pressure of the LPG inside sharply.
Never forget that - malfunctioning or poorly maintained LPG appliances, such as stoves and heaters, can also lead to fires. Issues like burner clogs, faulty regulators, or damaged valves can cause gas leaks or flare-ups. For solution, you should clean burners and vents regularly to prevent blockages. And replace any worn or damaged parts immediately. It has been known that human errors are one main cause of gas fire and explosion. Accidental actions such as leaving a burner on, improperly extinguishing a flame, or using LPG in ways it's not intended for can increase the risk of fire.
If you're using the LPG gas cylinder at home, it is advisable to always double-check that all burners are turned off after use. Never use LPG for purposes other than cooking or heating, such as lighting fires. Smoking near gas cylinders should also be avoid. If someone smokes near a gas leak, the flame from a cigarette, lighter, or match can ignite the gas, leading to a fire or explosion.
The best way to prevent smoking is by strictly enforcing a no-smoking policy in areas where LPG is used or stored. Educate your family members and guests about the dangers of smoking near LPG cylinders or appliances.