Stay Gas Safe after Tropical Cyclone Marcia

Queenslanders in communities affected by ex-Tropical Cyclone Marcia should be very careful using portable gas appliances and strictly follow all operating instructions on the appliances.

Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dr Anthony Lynham said today people often rely on gas barbeques, gas refrigerators, portable gas cookers and lights when power supply is lost - or their home is inundated by floodwaters - during severe weather events.

“These gas appliances are safe if they are checked thoroughly before use and people follow the manufacturer’s operating instructions closely for their safety,” Dr Lynham said.

“Importantly, portable gas appliances must never be used indoors as they require adequate ventilation to avoid raising carbon monoxide levels to unacceptable levels.

“Before use, check the appliance, the LPG cylinder and all connections with soapy water for any sign of bubbles that would indicate a gas leak.

“Gas appliances must be approved and display a certification label, otherwise they should not be used.

“Anyone buying gas appliances online should check for this certification before they buy.”

Dr Lynham said users should also keep in mind the following general gas safety advice:
• keep LPG gas cylinders upright and secured against falling;
• keep cylinders and containers away from heat or direct sunlight;
• do not modify gas appliances, components, cylinders or containers;
• do not connect or disconnect any gas container near a naked flame;
• ensure cylinder valves are tightly turned off when not in use; and
• fit a screwed outlet plug to gas cylinders when they’re not in use.

“If homes are inundated after a severe weather event such as a cyclone, a licensed gasfitter must be called in during the clean-up to first check all the installations before gas can be safely used again.

“This will include installed appliances such as gas stoves and gas hot water systems, pipes, meters and regulators.

“Appliances that have been immersed in floodwater or otherwise affected by water might need to be replaced, and pipework could be damaged, causing leaks which is a very dangerous situation.”

More information about gas safety and disaster preparedness is available at: www.dnrm.qld.gov.au/disaster-recovery

24 February 2015

Media contact: 3719 7369