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• 22 December 2000

• Media Centre

• Media Releases

• Archive

• 2000

So what do you have planned for the holiday period? Perhaps you’re going to be barbecuing, getting away to the countryside or to the beach, living in a tent or caravan for a week or two. Or maybe you're going to use the time off work and the good weather to catch up on some of those maintenance jobs around the house that you’ve been meaning to do all year. These are all activities that Kiwis think of when they think of summer. However, the Ministry of Consumer Affair's Energy Safety Service warns that there are risks associated with using gas bottles and appliances and electrical equipment, and with working near power lines. Extra safety precautions need to be taken to ensure that you get through your summer safety. The Energy Safety Service has these tips.

Camping and Caravanning

Camping appliances need air. In New Zealand, the majority of deaths associated with the use of camping appliances have been attributed to carbon monoxide poisoning. Without proper ventilation stoves and lamps can give off poisonous carbon monoxide. A faulty appliance can also emit carbon dioxide even in well ventilated areas. Carbon monoxide is colourless and odourless. Carbon monoxide poisoning can produce headache, nausea and dizziness. Prolonged exposure can result in unconsciousness and death.

When camping or caravanning, remember these tips:

• Make sure that your appliances are in good working order before you leave home. If you suspect there is a problem, take it to an appropriate servicing agency.
• Portable gas appliances are designed to be used outdoors. Never use them in confined spaces such as small tents. Make sure that there is plenty of space and ventilation when using gas appliances. Give your flame room to burn – it should just touch the bottom of the pot.
• Ventilation is very important in caravans. Check that all vents are clear and open when operating gas appliances. Portable gas heaters should never be used in caravans. Don't use your gas stove for heating. Never leave gas appliances running when you are resting or asleep.
• Keep your appliances in good condition and follow the manufacturer’s operating instructions.
• Caravans must have a current warrant of electrical fitness. You can get one by asking a licensed electrical worker to check your caravan's safety. Electrical connections to caravans can be dangerous.
• Use only one continuous extension flex, connected via approved type sockets and plugs on both the caravan and at the electricity supply end.
• When connecting to caravan socket outlet, you should also use an isolating transformer or a Residual Current Device (RCD) that will automatically disconnect the power in the event of a fault. This will protect you from dangerous shocks.

Barbecues

If you haven’t used your barbecue for a while, check the gas cylinder and all hoses and connections to make sure that they are in good condition.

• Cylinders must be re-tested every ten years. Never use damaged or corroded cylinders. You should check hoses to make sure that they have not perished and that there are no blockages.
• You can check for leaks by using soapy water – if there's a leak, a bubble will form. Never check for leaks with a naked flame. If there is a leak, move the cylinder at least 20 meters away from any spark or flame and when empty return it to the supplier with a note explaining the problem.
• Keep gas cylinders stored upright. It is dangerous to store them on their side.
• Make sure that you keep your barbecue clean. Fires have been triggered by fat built-up in barbecues.
• It's a good idea to have a fire extinguisher handy – just in case.

Home Maintenance

If you are planning some home maintenance work, be careful when you are working in the vicinity of power lines where they enter your house. These lines are not safe to touch.

• You should consult with your local electricity supplier before carrying out any work or using a ladder close to lines. Plan your work and arrange to have the power disconnected by the supplier, if necessary.
• If you are using a ladder near power lines, keep on eye on what is above you – don’t let the ladder come in contact with power lines. You should also watch out for what’s below - make sure that you check for the presence of any underground gas, power or water services before you dig.
• If you are operating any electrical equipment, especially outdoors, it's a good idea to use a Residual Current Device (RCD) or an isolating transformer.