Fuel Crisis And Risks
Over the past few months Zimbabwe has been faced with fuel shortages. This has prevented motorists from moving from one point to the next carrying out their normal day to day business. In an attempt to counter these shortages, we have seen many using the Jerry can (despite their being forbidden) in an attempt to store the precious commodity for future use. In a number of households across Harare we have seen drums, plastic cans and metal containers being stored in homes.
There are many dangers that the storage of fuel in households poses to individuals, families as well as the environment. If fuel is kept in a house, fumes build up, creating a dangerous explosive environment. Inhaling these fumes does affect the respiratory system, nervous system and can result in headaches, dizziness, and nausea.
Fuels such as petrol are dangerous in liquid state but more dangerous as vapour. If not stored under appropriate conditions, it can explode resulting in the spread of fire over a large area. These explosions can be triggered by heating units, smoking, electrical appliances as well as cellphones. Most of these gadgets are found within our homes and proper care needs to be taken when storing fuel to prevent fire and explosions.
The following are some risk management practices that you may employ:
- Fuel should be stored in outbuildings that are properly ventilated.
- Perform all fuel transfers outdoors to prevent fumes from building up and creating a dangerous explosive environment.
- Make sure that all tanks or containers containing fuels are properly labelled and that all members of the household are aware of the potential hazard posed by the product.
- Do not smoke while handling fuels.
- Turn off vehicle engines while refuelling.
- Keep at least one fire extinguisher (type purple K) close to your fuel containers.
- Contact your local fire department about receiving training on handling petroleum fires.
Be wise and take proper precautions, as these might save life and property.
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