By Erwin Nicavera/PNA
BACOLOD CITY — The Department of Energy (DOE) in the Visayas has reminded Negrenses on the the safe use of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) as the agency continued to push for energy conservation.
Jose Rey Maleza, officer-in-charge of DOE-Visayas, made this call during the Barangay Forum on Energy Conservation and Safe LPG Use held at the Provincial Capitol Social Hall here on Tuesday.
“Proper use of LPG will result in conservation of energy,” Maleza told about 60 multi-sectoral group representatives from Bacolod City and Murcia town during the forum.
The DOE, through its E-Power Mo Program, has partnered with the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) in organizing the activity.
Maleza said through the forum, they hope to bring the DOE information campaign to the barangay residents.
“The main purpose of the forum is to ensure safety as unsafe use of LPG products may cause tragedies and accidents especially among households,” he added.
Among those prohibited by the DOE is the use of 2.7-kilogram LPG cylinders in homes, citing the lack of safety features that are found on the larger 11-kg tank.
A DOE circular issued last March 20 requires concerned LPG companies to have their 2.7-kg cylinders marked “For Outdoor Use Only” as part of the campaign to significantly reduce the risks of fire hazards.
Maleza said though records of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) showed minimal fire incidents involving LPG, testimonies would tell different stories.
He said it is better to prevent these untoward incidents than doing nothing.
Maleza also reminded Negrenses to buy Christmas lights that are compliant with safety standards.
He also urged homeowners to switch off electrical decorations when the house is unattended or when everybody is asleep, and move these items away from any flammable materials.
