Gas-related incidents claimed 82 lives in Uzbekistan this year

Speaking at a briefing organized by the Agency for Information and Mass Communications (AIMC), Abdusattor Qayumov, the head of "Hududgaztaminot," stressed that negligence in adhering to gas safety regulations and the use of substandard equipment are the primary causes of such incidents.

While the number of incidents has decreased compared to the same period in 2023, when 86 incidents resulted in 88 fatalities and 119 injuries, the risks remain significant. Many accidents are attributed to faulty ventilation systems, with some cases leading to the death of entire families due to carbon monoxide poisoning.

“Incidents often occur because citizens fail to recognize the dangers of carbon monoxide, disregard safety campaigns, and use non-standard, makeshift, or faulty gas appliances and improperly installed ventilation systems,” Qayumov explained.

"Hududgaztaminot" has issued a list of safety measures for gas usage, urging citizens to:

•  Avoid unauthorized repairs, replacements, or relocation of gas appliances.
•  Refrain from using faulty or safety-automation-lacking equipment.
•  Regularly inspect chimneys and ventilation systems for proper functionality.
•  Ensure adequate ventilation in rooms with active gas appliances.
•  Never use gas stoves for heating or sleep in rooms with continuous gas burning.
•  Immediately ventilate spaces, shut off gas supply, and contact gas service providers if a gas smell is detected, without turning on electrical switches.
•  Never use open flames to detect gas leaks.

Additionally, installing gas detectors in rooms with gas appliances is strongly recommended. These devices issue audible warnings and automatically cut off the gas supply in case of leaks or carbon monoxide accumulation.

Citizens can report gas-related issues by calling the 1104 hotline or through the "Safe Gas" Telegram groups. These channels are open to ensure timely responses to emergencies and promote public safety.

"Preventing gas-related accidents is a collective responsibility. Compliance with these safety measures can save lives and avoid irreparable harm," Qayumov concluded.