Firefighters warn of the danger of stored and unused gas bottles

In France, it is estimated 68 million the number of gas bottles in circulation. Used for cooking, to operate an auxiliary heater or a DIY appliance. But barely 10% of them return to the distributor after useindicates the National Federation of Firefighters. Which means the remaining 90% is not used. In an awareness campaign launched at the end of October, in partnership with Antargaz, firefighters are warning of the dangers represented by these bottles stored in private homes or commercial premises.

The main risk pointed out by firefighters is explosion. Bottles are sensitive to heat and may explode in a fire For example. On October 26, four firefighters were injured in La Plaine-sur-Mer (Loire-Atlantique) by the explosion of gas cylinders in a house fire. Even when you think a bottle is empty, there is always some gas left in it and represents a risk of explosion.

Partnership with the FNSPF

The other risk concerns the environment. In addition to bottles abandoned in the forest, which again can amplify the devastation of a fire, the fact of not returning empty bottles to a distributor effectively prevents them from being reused. The bottles returned are subject to emptying and inspection to ensure that they still meet standards. They are filled with gas again to return to the distribution circuit. Which avoids having to make new bottles.

Good advice to avoid taking any risks

With this awareness campaign, firefighters want to encourage users to return empty or unused bottles to approved points of sale. They also give storage advice depending on the type of gas. A butane cylinder can be stored indoors, but not in the basement, which is generally a poorly ventilated area. A propane bottle must be kept outside, under a simple shelter.

Cylinders, regardless of gas, must always be stored upright, vertically, to avoid leaks. You should not try to fill them out yourself. It is also advisable to regularly check the condition of the hoses to ensure that they are not cracked. Finally, remember to look at the expiry date indicated on the gas bottles.