For much of the global population, heating homes during periods of colder weather is imperative – especially if there are elderly or young children living at the premises.
However, for some people, due to financial reasons or broken systems, it isn’t possible to enjoy the warmth of a properly installed heating or air conditioning network. This issue was illustrated in a recent case out of Pensacola, Florida.
US propane gas incident
Earlier this month (December 11), emergency services were called after a member of the household was awoken by propane fumes. Jimmie Sunday, 29, dialled for help, but unfortunately on arrival three people were dead.
According to the Pensacola Police police, the victims were Bridget Sunday, 52, Clarence Nettles, 54 and Tony Taylor Jr.,4. Another boy, Jaylen Sunday, 9, was also in the house at the time and was taken to a local hospital in a stable condition.
As the investigation begun, authorities believe they found the cause of the propane gas leak – an improperly used heater. Police said a portable heater was placed onto a propane tank and was being used to heat the inside of the house.
Chief Chip W. Simmons said the incident could have been avoided if checks were in place.
“We are saddened to report this tragedy and even more saddened that families would suffer this unthinkable tragedy 14 days before Christmas,” he said in a media statement.
“Any deaths are tragic, but especially those that could be avoided.”
Pensacola Mayor Ashton Hayward expressed his condolences to the family.
“As mayor, I want to urge Pensacola families not to resort to the use of unventilated propane heaters or other unsafe heating methods,” he stated.
What’s the issue with propane gas?
Propane gas is extremely flammable, but can also be lethal from inhalation as the above case demonstrated. According to the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety, propane gas can become a problem if there s a lack of oxygen in the environment.
Given that the doors and windows were closed due to the cold night in Florida, this presented optimum conditions for the gas to build up and fill the environment.
Propane gas is a threat that can also develop due to a malfunctioning air conditioning system so it is important for building managers and homeowners to get their networks checked. Now is the perfect time for Australian homeowners considering they aren’t in use at the moment.
Professionals can use the testo gas detector to test for a number of gas types including methane, propane and hydrogen down to 1 ppm. For more information on indoor air quality, contact the expert team at Testo today.
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