Explainer: What to do in case of a gas explosion

Kenyans on Friday woke up to the sad news that three people had lost their lives in a gas explosion in Embakasi.

The tragedy also left over 200 people nursing injuries in various hospitals in the city.

Several patients were treated and discharged from the facility since 1:30 am on Friday.

The explosion occurred almost midnight with videos posted on social media showing a huge fire raging close to blocks of flats.

Such gas explosions are always reported not just in the country but globally.

Whether at home, at workspaces, or in public spaces, gas explosions can be dangerous and life-threatening.

This is even more alarming if the explosion happens in a place that is crowded or enclosed with more people like the case of Embakasi.

Due to this, every Kenyan must have an understanding of what to do should such an event unfold since such occurrences are sudden and in most cases violent.

According to tips from the University of England, you are advised to use your best judgment to remove yourself from danger by evacuating to the designated assembly area or a safer place should there be no direction from those in charge.

Ball State University on their site advises that should you smell gas before an explosion, you should evacuate the building as quickly as possible.

It however advises against using the lifts and help Persons with Disabilities where you can.

You are further advised to avoid using lighters and matches as this will be disastrous.

If you hear an explosion, it's recommended to seek cover and prepare for potential subsequent explosions.

It is also important that Kenyans familiarise themselves with the various emergency lines, as they can call to ask for help.

In Kenya for instance, you should dial 999, 1199 for Red Cross emergency response and 1508 for Nairobi emergency response.

"Stay away from windows, mirrors, overhead fixtures, filing cabinets, bookcases and electrical equipment," Ball State University advises.

"Do not move seriously injured persons unless they are in obvious immediate danger of fire, or building collapse," it further warns.

Similarly, in case of an explosion, you are advised to feel the doors for any possible heat before opening, and as you leave the room, you should watch out for any falling objects.

It is also advisable not to turn on the lights, or use electrical devices; you should also limit the use of telephone to allow calls for emergency services.

Should you make it out of the disaster, you should meet at a predetermined location to account for all members of your unit.

Above all, emergency response and first aid measures should be implemented promptly after a gas explosion.

"First responders should be trained in providing basic first aid such as stopping bleeding, managing shock, and performing CPR if necessary," an online media site Kdlm.com says.

During such moments, utility companies should be notified immediately so that they can dispatch their personnel to assess the situation and take necessary action.

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