Steps to be taken:
1. Extinguish all sources of ignition within the area. Do not switch "ON" or "OFF" electrical switches as they might create sparks.
2. Apply soapy water solution on the tank and pipe fittings to trace the source of leak.
3. Close the valve to stop the gas flow.
4. Disperse the LPG vapor by using water to induce air movement. Spray the water directly and slowly towards the vapor cloudy surface.
5. Keep persons out of vapor cloud.
In Case of Leakage WITH Fire
Steps to be taken:
1. If escaping gas is on fire, attempt to extinguish it by closing the valve to stop the leak. If the only valve which can stop the gas flow is involved in the fire, consider the possibility of effecting shut-off by protecting the firemen while they are closing the valve. This action must be undertaken only by trained personnel.
2. If the leakage cannot be stopped, allow the fire to burn out. However, the fire must be kept under control by spraying sufficient volume of cooling water on the upper portion of the tank to reduce pressure inside and slow down the leakage. Failure of the tank will occur if the metal surface becomes overheated.
3. If a fire occurs near the LPG cylinder, spray water on the upper portion of the cylinder to keep the metal surfaces cool.
In Case of FIRE
A. When an LPG cylinder is exposed to excessive heat, the container should be kept as cool as possible by applying a stream or spray of water on it.
B. If vapor from the relief valve has ignited at the scene of a blaze, water should be applied on the cylinder to lower the temperature and decrease the inside pressure so that the valve will close again and fire will extinguish itself.
C. When an adjacent building is on fire, the LPG containers should be kept as cool as possible by water stream or spray. Remove or transfer the cylinders only when no danger is involved.
D. If a truck loaded with LPG cylinders is on fire, the following points should be remembered:
1. If the fire occurs in the engine of the vehicle, it should be extinguished as quickly as possible. It should be remembered that heat on the cylinders will only cause the relief valve to activate and ignite. Steps should be taken to prevent flames from getting to where they can cause damage.
2. If the fire occurs elsewhere in the vehicle and heats the LPG cylinders directly, fire extinguishers should be used to put out the flames around the cylinders. This should be supplemented by stream of water on the cylinders to keep them cool.
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