If the smell is strong, you can hear gas escaping, or there is a fire: get everyone out first, then call for help from a safe distance. In Lagos, call 112 or 767. Both are toll-free.
If you smell gas
- Don’t light anything. Put out any flame or cigarette if you can do so straight away.
- Don’t switch lights, fans or other electrical devices on or off, and don’t plug or unplug anything.
- Turn off the burner and the cylinder valve, if you can reach them safely.
- Open doors and windows.
- If you can still smell gas after turning off the supply, leave, keep others away and call for help from outside.
Don’t go back to using the cooker because the smell has faded. Find the cause first, or have a qualified person check it.
How to check for a leak with soapy water
Do this only if you can’t smell gas strongly and the area is well ventilated. Never test with a flame.
- Mix detergent and water in a spray bottle or cup.
- With the gas on and the burners off, apply it to the valve, regulator, hose and connections.
- Watch for bubbles anywhere from the cylinder to the cooker. Bubbles that grow mean gas is escaping.
- If you see any, turn off the supply, stop using the set-up until it is fixed, and rinse off the soapy water.
Habits that lower the risk
- Keep the cylinder secured and away from heat and anything that can ignite gas.
- Keep the kitchen ventilated, and don’t leave a pot unattended: a spill can put out the flame while gas keeps flowing.
- Close the cylinder valve when it isn’t in use, including when it is empty.
- Replace a hose or regulator that is cracked, stiff or damaged.
- Have a badly rusted or dented cylinder checked before refilling, and ask the seller about any test date stamped on it.
Don’t let anyone decant your gas
Decanting means moving gas from one cylinder into another. Nigeria’s midstream and downstream petroleum regulator, the NMDPRA, has warned that it is illegal and a serious safety hazard. Buy from a proper outlet, and report decanting if you see it.
A note on how this applies to DelivGas orders
Check your cylinder at the door before you give your return code. If you smell gas when it arrives, don’t connect it or bring it indoors. Tell your rider, and contact support in the app under Profile, then Help & Support. If it is an emergency, call 112 or 767 first.
This guide is general information. It doesn’t replace emergency services, your cylinder or appliance instructions, or a check by a qualified gas technician.
