Brackendowns pensioners still in shock after gas cylinder catches fire
An elderly couple is still in shock following a fire in their Brackendowns home that broke out on July 15 in the afternoon.
AN ELDERLY couple is still in shock after a fire broke out in their Brackendowns home on July 15.
A 9kg gas cylinder in one of the pensioner’s outside rooms caught fire.
The fire broke out immediately as the homeowner lit his gas stove, planning to prepare meals for his two grandchildren.
The fire then got out of hand as the homeowner tirelessly tried to put it out with water.
Not long after that Fox Security arrived on scene to extinguish the fire with the help they received from neighbours.
No injuries were reported, although the fire partially burnt the kitchen cupboard.
According to Hilda Dlomo, the homeowner, they have been using a gas stove primarily for cooking.
She said this is convenient for them as electricity costs them a fortune.
“We still don’t know how this gas cylinder caught fire. We have been using it for years and it was the first time this happened.
“On the day, I wanted to prepare food for our grandchildren as we mostly have problems with electricity outages, hence we prefer using a gas stove,” she said.
“I would like to extend my gratitude to my neighbours who made sure that we were safe and that this fire didn’t spread further.
“They tried all means of putting out the cylinder and our property was safe. I now fear using a gas stove, although I’m not discouraging those that use them – just be safe,” said Hilda.
Some tips from Supergas to avoid a gas cylinder explosion:
• Don’t put the cylinder in hot water even if there is some residual LPG left. Chances of a gas cylinder explosion are always high when they are exposed to heat and fire.
• Remember to keep the regulator knob in the off position when not in use.
• Do not store flammable material and plastics in the kitchen near the LPG cylinder or cooking area.
• The kitchen and the cooking area should be well ventilated.
• ISI-approved rubber tubes and regulators are to be used.
• LPG cylinders should be bought from authorised franchises only.
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