Gas safety advice following explosion
Man still critical following the blast in Gorton
Following reports on the gas explosion in Gordon resulting in one man fighting for his life, Gas Safe Register – the UK’s official gas safety authority – is issuing gas safety advice to the public.
Sarah Hill, stakeholder manager for Gas Safe Register, said: “While authorities will be confirming the exact cause of this gas incident, we know that badly fitted and poorly maintained gas appliances can lead to gas leaks, fires and explosions such as this.
“One of the best ways to keep you and your family safe is to make sure your gas appliances are working properly by getting them safety checked by a registered engineer at least once year. You can sign up to a free reminder service that will tell you when your appliances are due to be checked by visiting; www.staygassafe.co.uk.
“It is also important to only use a Gas Safe registered engineer to carry out gas work in your home. Fitters who are not Gas Safe registered are not qualified to work on gas and are working illegally. Always ask to see an individual’s Gas Safe ID card before you let them carry out gas work in your home.”
If you smell gas, follow Gas Safe Register’s safety advice:
• Ventilate the room opening all doors and windows
• Switch off the appliance you suspect may be leaking and do not use it again
• Switch off the gas at the mains
• Call the national gas emergency number – 0800 111 999
• Do not turn on lights, electrical appliances or light any naked flames and leave the property if you can
For more information and to find a registered engineer in your area visit www.GasSafeRegister.co.uk or call 0800 408 5500.