Muslims breaking their fast together after sunset in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. (image: emirates247.com)
Dubai Civil Defense and Emirates Gas have teamed up to launch a campaign to educate propane consumers on awareness and safe usage, the Khaleej Times reported last week. As part of the program, the Dubai Municipality will send gas safety experts to 15,000 houses over the month of Ramadan to teach people with a direct, hands-on approach.
The first phase of the campaign, called “Check your cylinder – Ensure your safety,” explains the basic properties of propane, especially its flammability and how it’s affected by factors like pressure and temperature.
“This campaign is aimed to make the consumers aware about the dangers of incorrect use of LPG cylinders, as safety precautions become extremely important with the advent of holy Ramadan,” said a statement from the Municipality. The 29-30 day Islamic observance involves a period of fasting, then celebratory gatherings with lots of food and lights. Propane is a popular fuel for cooking, lighting, and home heating in Dubai.
“Everyone should comply with all safety procedures when it comes to dealing with gas cylinders. Any small incident can have serious consequences and besides, the campaign will focus on how to handle and store cylinders safely,” said Hussain Nasser Lootah, Director-General of the Municipality, noting his belief that maintaining human safety is the responsibility of every member of the community, especially during hot summer months and special occasions or holidays.
“The next stages of the campaign will include distribution of awareness brochures through petrol stations,” he explained. “Each of the participating members [Municipality, Civil Defense, and Emirates Gas] will also visit approximately 5,000 homes. In addition, public awareness programs will be organized in customer service centers and cooperative societies.”
Besides customer outreach, Emirates Gas also recently developed new tank valves and regulators with built-in safety features. Program administrators and public officials are optimistic their efforts will bring deep cuts in incident reports, accidents and injuries.