On the 8th of April, 2025 in Lagos state — A gas cylinder explosion rocked a small retail shop at Ijora-Badia in Apapa, injuring at least 20 people, 14 of them severely burned, officials said. The explosion happened when a leaking 25‑kg cylinder ignited inside a crowded, poorly ventilated workspace.
WHAT HAPPENED
A 25‑kg cooking gas cylinder began leaking inside a small shop that also stored five other cylinders. The heat inside the space caused gas to build up. When ignition occurred, the gas exploded and started a fire. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) said its team rushed to the scene, evacuated the injured, and began investigating the cause.
Also, in Ogun State, a cooking gas cylinder inside a bus exploded, killing 15 passengers. The cylinder had leaked in a confined space, and a spark ignited the gas, leading to a deadly blaze.
Again tragically, in Minna, a cylinder exploded in a vulcanizer’s shop after a worker poured water on a hot cylinder. One person died and two others were severely burned.
Gas cylinders are now widely used in many households, for businesses - mainly for cooking and heating. While they are generally safe, they can be dangerous if not handled properly. In some cases, a gas cylinder may explode, causing fire, injury, or even death. Today, I will explain why gas cylinders may explode and how you can prevent it.
In the same Lagos state, a fake LPG gas cylinder blew up while being refilled at a gas plant, designed and welded unlawfully for LPG use. It exploded within minutes of filling, injuring many people.
What Can Cause a Gas Cylinder to Explode?
1. Gas Leak
A gas leak is the most common cause. If gas escapes from the cylinder and mixes with air, it can catch fire or explode when exposed to flame or spark.
2. Overheating
Leaving a gas cylinder in direct sunlight or near a fire can make it too hot. When the cylinder gets too hot, pressure builds up inside and can cause it to burst.
3. Poor Storage
Let's not forget, storing the cylinder in a closed or tight space with poor ventilation can lead to gas buildup. This makes it easy for the gas to ignite if there’s a small spark.
4. Faulty Equipment
A lot of Lpg gas users are fond of using old or damaged regulators, hoses, or burners. Unfortunately, this can lead to gas leaks. Cracks or loose connections can allow gas to escape without you noticing.
5. Refilling from Unsafe Sources
Buying gas from illegal or unlicensed dealers can be risky. They may overfill the cylinder or use poor-quality gas that increases the chance of explosion.
How to Prevent Gas Cylinder Explosion
> First off, check for leaks regularly. You can use soapy water to check for leaks around the valve and hose. If bubbles form, there is a leak—turn off the gas and call a professional.
> Also, don't forget to store gas cylinder bottles in a safe place. It is necessary and important to keep the cylinder in a well-ventilated area. And avoid direct sunlight, heat, or fire sources.
> Next step to prevent gas cylinder explosion is to use quality equipment. only use regulators and hoses approved by safety authorities - one with SON (Standard Organization of Nigeria), or, since most of Lpg gas products used in Nigeria are imported, try looking out for BIS quality mark.
And remember to replace any damaged parts immediately.
> Least not to also forget (this should be at the back of your mind always) to turn off gas cylinder valve, equipments when not in use. Always turn off the gas cylinder and the burner after cooking.
> Lastly, as said earlier on - buy from trusted dealers. Only refill your cylinder at licensed gas plants or dealers. Avoid unprofessional street vendors or unsafe gas refill spots.
Warning Signs of a Possible Explosion Risk
• You smell gas around your kitchen or cylinder.
• You hear a hissing sound from the cylinder.
• You notice the flame is too high, yellow, or noisy.
• The cylinder feels too hot to touch.
If you notice any of these signs, turn off the cylinder immediately, open windows for ventilation, and call for help.
Yes, gas cylinders are/can be safe when used the right way. Most explosions happen due to carelessness or poor equipment. To protect yourself and your family, always follow the basic safety rules. Keep your gas equipment in good condition, store it properly, and never ignore the smell of gas.