'Winter is coming' became a popular slogan from an English TV show for a number of years. However, it very aptly describes the situation that awaits Pakistani citizens, especially those residing in the northern areas. The arrival of the winter accompanies the gift of natural gas shortage and low gas pressure. And so, the people must prepare for what's to come.
We all are well aware that natural gas reserves, on the whole, are declining. Furthermore, gas fields are fast depleting and new discoveries are few and far between. In such a scenario, catering to rising consumer demands, especially during winters, is an uphill task.
It is imperative to take certain measures to not only conserve gas, but also to take active steps to ensure our survival. It has been in the wake of a number of accidents that occur due to a lack of awareness towards the safety measures that should be taken when using gas-run appliances. During the winter, when it gets extremely cold in the northern areas of the country, the use of these appliances increases manifold. But a number of people tend to forget the steps necessary to ensure their safety.
Some important and easy tips that will definitely help you during winter are:
Most people in the colder regions of Pakistan use gas heaters whole night in order to keep themselves warm. However, accidents occur when due to low pressure of gas heater's flame switches off during the night while the residents are in deep sleep. When the gas pressure increases, the gas begins leaking into the room through the switched off heater. Natural gas, when filled in closed space, depletes oxygen levels of that space. Worst case scenario, the residents end up suffocating and eventually passing on to the afterlife. In order to avoid such an incident, there are two things that can be done. Either, switch off the heater before falling to sleep, or, keep the window slightly ajar. This will allow air to pass through, thereby, preventing the oxygen level in the room from depleting. In return, the number of accidental deaths will also decrease, directly minimizing the death toll during winters.
Another misconception by many people is regarding the temperature setting of geysers. Many people have in a habit of increasing the temperature to the highest level in hope of receiving hot water throughout winter. However, this only leads to gas wastage. It is always recommended to set the geyser thermostat at warm, for optimum utilization of both, the equipment as well as natural gas.
The stove, on the other hand, is one of the most frequently used appliances throughout the year. Consumers need to be very careful while using this appliance in order to ensure that there is no gas leakage. Heater knobs should regularly be checked and stove should be cleaned in order to conserve gas. Most of the Pakistani women prefer cooking on high flame, which not only affects the nutritional value of the food, but also results in wastage of gas. For delicious meals, it is always recommended to cook on blue flame, as it retains the nutrition, and also prevents gas wastage.
So, prepare for the coming winter season by following the advices indicated above and make sure to conserve gas because only you can!
Copyright Business Recorder, 2019