Almost every Indian kitchen runs on an LPG cylinder, and most of the time it is perfectly safe. Problems start with small bits of neglect: a cracked pipe, a regulator left open, a leak no one noticed. These twelve rules keep your gas connection safe without any special effort.
Everyday habits
- Turn the regulator off after every use, and again before you sleep.
- Never leave a lit stove unattended.
- Keep the burner area clear of cloth, paper and plastic.
- Cook in a ventilated kitchen so any leaked gas can escape.
Checking your equipment
- Inspect the rubber gas pipe for cracks and replace it before its expiry date.
- Use only an ISI-marked pipe, regulator and burner.
- Keep the cylinder upright, on the floor, never lying down or on a shelf.
- Buy only sealed cylinders with the safety cap intact, from an authorised dealer.
Spotting and handling a leak
- If you smell gas, do not light a match or touch any electrical switch.
- Turn off the regulator, open doors and windows, and let the gas disperse.
- Close the regulator and call your distributor if the smell continues.
- Keep an automatic fire extinguisher ball near, but not above, the stove for the worst case.
If a fire does start, our guide on how to put out a kitchen fire explains exactly what to do.
One simple backup
Even a careful kitchen can have a bad day. An automatic fire extinguisher ball placed near the stove acts on its own if a gas or oil fire breaks out, putting it down in 3 to 10 seconds. It is a small, one-time step that covers the moment you are not watching. See the FireXross 0.5 Kg ball.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I change my LPG gas pipe?
Replace it on or before the expiry date printed on the pipe, and sooner if you see any cracks or wear.
What should I do first if I smell gas?
Do not light anything or touch electrical switches. Turn off the regulator and open doors and windows to let the gas clear.
Should the LPG cylinder be kept upright?
Yes. Always keep the cylinder upright on the floor in a ventilated space, never lying down.
