Using a gas stove and cylinder safely at home

Every day - Before lighting the stove, open the kitchen door and windows so any gas that has gathered can escape. - Strike the match or lighter first, then turn the stove knob. - Do not leave the stove for other work while cooking. If milk or dal boils over and puts out the flame, gas keeps flowing. - When cooking is done, turn off both the stove knob and the regulator. - Do not dry clothes over the flame or use the stove to heat the room. - Do not let children play near the stove or cylinder.

The cylinder and pipe - Keep the cylinder upright at all times, where air moves, away from the stove. Never on its side or upside down. - Buy cylinders from a known, approved seller; refuse one that is bulging, rusted or has a damaged valve. - Use a standard regulator and pipe. Replace the pipe when it is cracked, stiff or old. - Now and then, put soapy water on the pipe, the regulator and the joints. Bubbles mean a leak; do not use it until a mechanic has seen it. - Never use a match or flame to look for a leak.

If you smell gas - Light nothing: no match, lighter, incense or cigarette. - Do not switch any light, fan or electric switch on or off; do not plug in a phone to charge. - Turn off the stove knob and the regulator. - Open all the doors and windows. - Take the whole family outside into the open, and from outside call the Fire Service on 16163 or 999. - Light no flame indoors until the smell is completely gone and a mechanic has checked.

If oil catches fire If hot oil in a pan catches fire, never pour water on it; the fire leaps and spreads. Turn off the stove, cover the pan with a lid or a thick wet cloth, and do not move it until it cools. If the fire grows, get everyone out. If someone is burned, hold the burn under cool running water and take them to hospital.