In recent years, gas explosion incidents have occurred frequently, with the Shin Kong Mitsukoshi explosion in Taichung being the most severe this year and drawing significant public attention. The Taipei City Public Works Department's Sanitation Engineering Division reminds citizens that gas is highly flammable, and any leak could easily trigger an explosion. People should stay alert and follow proper emergency responses.
Lu Shixuan, Head of Quality Control and Occupational Safety at the division, pointed out that according to statistics from the National Fire Agency, there have been 295 gas leaks or explosions across Taiwan in the past three years&mdashnearly 100 cases per year&mdashoften resulting in severe casualties and property loss. Most accidents occur when natural gas or LPG accumulates to explosive levels in enclosed spaces and encounters an ignition source such as stoves, lighters, lights, or appliances.
To prevent such disasters, the division urges citizens to stay calm upon smelling gas and immediately follow the four-step response:
Avoid using any flame or electrical appliances
Turn off the gas valve
Open windows for ventilation
Call 119 and contact the gas company.
At the same time, evacuate immediately. Do not use exhaust fans or electric fans to disperse the gas, as this may cause an explosion and greater harm.
Use Gas with Caution, Stay Safe &mdash 4 Steps to Handle Gas Leaks (Image / Screenshot from Taipei City Government Website)
The division also stated that the Dihua and Bali wastewater treatment plants under its jurisdiction use sludge drying systems powered by natural gas or biogas produced from sewage treatment. These systems are equipped with automatic shut-off devices, which cut off the gas supply and trigger alarms when leaks are detected, prompting immediate staff response. Additionally, the equipment is inspected and maintained regularly in cooperation with the gas company to ensure worker safety.
The division further urges the public to use gas cautiously for daily cooking and washing, and to undergo regular safety inspections every two years as required. While gas is convenient, only through caution and proper use can we stay safe from disasters.
