MWE Correspondent
Residents in Tanzania have been urged to abandon the unsafe habit of shaking liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders to check how much gas remains, after energy experts warned the practice could lead to accidents.
The call was made during a public awareness session in Nyamagana District this week, part of a clean cooking campaign designed to promote safer use of LPG as households across the country gradually shift away from traditional fuels such as charcoal and firewood.
Instead of shaking cylinders, experts encouraged users to adopt a safer and more accurate method: wrapping the cylinder in a wet cloth and leaving it for about five minutes. When the cloth is removed, the area still containing gas appears cool and damp due to condensation, while the empty section remains dry.
According to safety specialists, this approach helps families avoid unnecessary risks while ensuring they use their cylinders efficiently.
“Shaking cylinders might seem harmless, but it can trigger accidents if leaks are present,” one expert explained. “A safer practice is not just about convenience—it protects households from potentially life-threatening situations.”
The event also highlighted the dangers of gas leaks, particularly in enclosed spaces. One of the most serious risks arises when residents unknowingly switch on electronic devices or lights while gas has filled the air. Even a tiny spark can ignite an explosion. Families were advised that if they ever smell gas, they should immediately open all windows and doors, avoid switching on appliances, and contact professionals to check the leak.
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The awareness campaign is part of Tanzania’s broader efforts to scale up the use of clean cooking energy, which not only improves household safety but also reduces indoor air pollution and protects the environment. Globally, the World Health Organization estimates that millions die prematurely each year from illnesses linked to smoke from traditional cooking fuels.
In Tanzania, where firewood and charcoal remain common, the government has rolled out the National Clean Cooking Energy Strategy (2024–2034). The plan aims to increase the share of households using clean cooking solutions from the current 16 percent to 80 percent by 2034. Campaigns like these play a critical role in achieving that target.
For families in districts like Nyamagana, the shift to LPG represents more than just cleaner kitchens. It means saving time that was once spent gathering firewood, reducing health risks from smoke-filled homes, and cutting down deforestation.
Community members who attended the session welcomed the advice, with many expressing surprise at the simple wet cloth technique. “I always used to shake the cylinder,” said one participant. “Now I realize it wasn’t safe. I will teach my children the right way.”
The campaign’s message is clear: safer habits, combined with wider adoption of LPG and other clean fuels, can transform household life while protecting both people and the environment.
