In the first nine months of 2023, the Military Fire Department of the State of Ceará (CBMCE) addressed 1,579 gas incidents.
This latest update was announced on their website which records their interventions from January through September.
This figure indicates a 5% drop when compared to the same timeframe in 2022.
During that period, the CBMCE attended to 1,650 gas incidents. Nonetheless, in the entirety of 2022, they responded to 2,118 gas incidents.
#This was notably higher than the numbers reported in 2021, 2020, and 2019, which recorded 1,624, 1,957, and 2,092 incidents respectively.
Gases can vary significantly in their composition.
Some of the more common types include natural gas, carbon dioxide, noble gases, fuel gases, methane, and butane.
Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), more commonly referred to as cooking gas, primarily comprises propane and butane gases.
A sulfur compound is added to LPG to produce a distinct odor, serving as an early warning in case of a leak.
When gases are subjected to high pressures, they liquefy.
It is essential to store the cylinder upright to prevent the liquid gas, which can cause severe accidents, from being discharged.
Should cooking gas leak, it vaporizes, a process transitioning it from liquid to gas.
During this phase, the cylinder can cool down, condensing water vapor from the atmosphere, often misleadingly suggesting the cylinder is “sweating.”
Situations like these can be hazardous, especially if an ignition source is nearby, risking an explosive outcome.
For those using gas cylinders, the CBMCE advises periodic checks for any visible dents or rust.
This proactive approach minimizes potential structural leaks.
Additionally, every half-decade, users should consider changing the gas valve and hose to prevent complications from wear and tear.
The data presented by the Military Fire Department of the State of Ceará underscores the recurring challenges fire departments face.
While there’s a notable decrease in the number of incidents from 2022, it’s crucial for communities to understand the potential hazards related to gas and the preventive measures they can adopt.
Insights like these empower individuals, leading to safer environments and potentially saving lives.
