Experts warn against unsafe use of cooking gas

MWANZA: CLEAN energy experts have issued a warning about the dangers associated with the improper use of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), including the common but unsafe practice of shaking gas cylinders to check the remaining amount of gas.

Instead of shaking the cylinder, users are advised to use a safer method: wrap the cylinder with a wet cloth and leave it for about five minutes.

Upon removing the cloth, the area that still contains gas will appear moist due to condensation, while the empty part will remain dry.

The advice was part of a public education session held this week in Nyamagana District, during an award ceremony for clean cooking energy users, under the ongoing four-month ‘Gesi Yente’ campaign, organised by Oryx Energies Tanzania. The campaign supports the national push towards clean energy adoption.

Oryx Energies’ Sales Officer for the Lake Zone, Masota Mafuru noted the potential dangers of gas leaks, particularly when users unknowingly turn on electronic switches in a gas-filled environment.

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“A gas leak is usually accompanied by a strong, unpleasant smell. If this happens, people should immediately open all doors and windows to ventilate the area and contact our agents, who are trained to handle such emergencies,” Mafuru said.

He further advised that in the event of a leak, individuals wearing shoes with metallic soles should remove them immediately. Walking in such footwear on hard surfaces could generate sparks, potentially igniting the leaked gas.

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The company’s Marketing Officer, Shaban Fundi said the campaign launched last month, encourages wider use of clean cooking gas by recognising and rewarding responsible users nationwide. Prizes have been distributed as part of the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts.

He also noted the economic burden of traditional fuels, particularly charcoal, which many households rely on.

“Many households spend at least 5,000 per day on charcoal. Think about the monthly cost and compare it with clean energy like gas, which is more efficient and economical,” he noted.

One of the award recipients, Mr Maxmilliam Nyamoge, who won a motorcycle, praised the campaign for promoting not just clean cooking, but also environmental conservation, especially through its focus on reducing deforestation.

Nyamagana District Administrative Secretary, Mr Thomas Salala, echoed this sentiment, saying afforestation is one of the district’s priorities. He noted that 1.5 million trees were planted last year, although climate change particularly drought has hindered the growth of some.

“Shifting to clean energy is not only about protecting the environment but also about saving money. A sack of charcoal now costs over 60,000/-, yet much of it turns out to be dust,” he said.

“Also, the quality of charcoal has declined due to the types of trees used. Gas, on the other hand, delivers instant and reliable cooking once turned on.”