The National Petroleum Authority (NPA) has issued a warning to the public regarding the safe transport of filled Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) cylinders, emphasizing the importance of keeping them secure and upright. This precaution is crucial to prevent over-pressurization, which can damage the pressure relief valve and lead to gas leaks or even explosions.
During an LPG safety campaign at several tertiary institutions in the Upper West Region, Mrs. Eunice Budu-Nyarko, Head of Consumer Services at the NPA, stressed that consumer safety must be a priority to avoid fire outbreaks that can result in injuries and property damage. She urged individuals to always transport cylinders in a stable position to minimize risks.
In response to concerns about fuel dispensing errors at filling stations, Mrs. Budu-Nyarko advised motorists to verify the type of fuel being dispensed, highlighting the color-coded nozzles: red for petrol, black for diesel, and green for high-octane fuel. Mr. Abraham Dauda, NPA’s Upper West Regional Supervisor for Inspections and Monitoring, warned students against using mobile phones while cooking and encouraged strict adherence to safety protocols.
Prof. Hamidatu Saaka Darimani, Vice-Chancellor of Dr. Hilla Liman Technical University, advocated for adopting Burkina Faso’s model, which requires cylinders to be purchased only from licensed outlets to protect consumers from substandard products. She acknowledged the NPA’s efforts in promoting safety awareness, stating that understanding the risks associated with negligence is vital for effective fire prevention. The campaign reached institutions like Dr. Hilla Liman Technical University and Nusrat Jahan Ahmadiyya College of Education, marking a proactive step in enhancing public safety.