Gas Safety Corporation "Caution for Gas Accidents During Seollal Holiday... Check Devices Before Use"

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Bo-kyung] The Korea Gas Safety Corporation urged caution in using gas appliances on the 22nd, stating, "As the Lunar New Year holiday approaches, when gas usage increases, the risk of accidents also rises."

According to the corporation, there were 21 gas accidents during the Lunar New Year holidays from 2015 to 2019. Among these, user negligence and facility deficiencies each accounted for 6 cases, the highest numbers, followed by 3 intentional accidents, 2 due to product aging, 1 overheating fire, 1 caused by other companies, and 2 others.

To prevent the most common user negligence accidents involving portable butane heaters (5 cases), it is essential to inspect them before use. When using portable gas stoves, the butane canister must be correctly installed in the groove, and it should be checked for any gas leaks.

Using cookware larger than the stand can cause the butane canister to explode due to radiant heat, so caution is also necessary when using cookware.

Since boiler supply and exhaust pipe-related accidents (3 cases) accounted for half of the facility deficiency accidents, thorough inspection of gas boilers during winter is also necessary. It is safe to check whether the boiler exhaust pipe is sagging or bent and whether the connections are properly secured.

Additionally, before leaving the house, turn off the gas stove knobs, intermediate valves, and main valves (for LP gas, the container valve). Upon returning home after the holiday, if gas leakage is suspected, the first action should be to open windows and ventilate the house.

If using LPG gas, considering its characteristic of being heavier than air, ventilation should be done by sweeping the gas out with a broom or similar tool. Using exhaust fans or electric fans in a hurry can ignite sparks and cause explosions, so electrical devices must never be used.

A representative from the Gas Safety Corporation stated, "Above all, if gas leakage is suspected, contacting the city gas company or LPG supplier and receiving a safety inspection is the best way to ensure safety."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.