Rescue 1122 Rawalpindi has issued a warning as colder weather leads to increased use of gas heaters and stoves, raising the risk of domestic gas leaks and fires. The authority stressed the importance of gas leak safety to prevent incidents that can turn catastrophic within seconds.
District Emergency Officer Rawalpindi Engineer Zabghat Ullah said negligence and small errors are the main causes of most gas-related accidents. He urged residents to adopt strict precautions, especially ensuring that all gas appliances are turned off before going to bed, because timely vigilance is the key to protecting lives.
Official figures show that last winter there were 14 gas leak incidents resulting in 24 serious injuries. So far this season Rescue 1122 teams have responded to six reported gas leak incidents in which eight people were injured; teams provided immediate first aid and evacuated victims to nearby hospitals.
Authorities advised that if a gas odor is detected, residents should not press electrical switches or create any spark or flame, as this can trigger a severe explosion. Instead, open all windows and doors to ventilate the home and move family members outside to a safe distance. In such emergencies, prompt reporting to the helpline is critical.
Media Coordinator Muhammad Usman Gujar appealed to the public to avoid any carelessness when using gas appliances and to call 1122 immediately if an emergency occurs. Rescue 1122 Rawalpindi has also released an awareness video offering practical guidance on safe use of heaters, cookers and other gas-powered devices during winter.
Officials reiterated that adhering to basic gas leak safety measures and timely reporting to 1122 ensures a faster response and significantly reduces the risk to lives and property.
