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Do not turn on light or touch light if you sense gas leakage at home- Ghana Fire Service to Ghanaians
The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has issued a strong warning to the public to avoid turning on lights or phone torches if they detect gas leakages in their homes.
This advisory is part of the service’s ongoing safety education aimed at reducing domestic fire incidents.
Alex King Nartey, a representative of the GNFS Public Relations Department, shared this caution during an interview on Adom FM’s Kasiebo is Tasty.
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Explaining the dynamics of fire outbreaks, ADOI Nartey highlighted the fire triangle: air (oxygen), fuel, and heat.
He noted that when gas is detected, the kitchen is already filled with fuel (gas), and oxygen is naturally present in the air. Introducing heat, such as by turning on a light, completes the fire triangle and could trigger a fire.
“When you smell gas in your kitchen, it means the fuel has taken over. Air is always present around us, and light generates heat. Turning on a light completes the triangle, making it easy for a fire to ignite,” he warned.
In a related advisory, ADOI Nartey urged drivers to exercise caution when dealing with car fires.
He emphasised that opening the bonnet of a burning car immediately allows air to rush in, intensifying the flames.
Instead, he recommended opening the bonnet just slightly—about one centimetre—and using a fire extinguisher to control the flames before fully opening the bonnet. Additionally, drivers should disconnect the car’s battery terminal to cut off the power source contributing to the fire.
“Many lose their vehicles to fires because they open the bonnet too quickly. Always use the extinguisher first, then disconnect the battery to reduce the fire’s intensity,” he advised.
The GNFS continues to educate the public on preventive measures to ensure safety at home and on the road
