The Meritorious Fire Corps of the Republic of Panama (BCBRP) has issued an urgent alert to the public regarding the increasing number of emergencies related to gas installations in homes and businesses.
According to the report from Captain Andrés Espinoza, head of the Radio Control Department, 769 incidents have been recorded so far this year, many stemming from faulty installations, unsafe practices, and work done by unqualified personnel.
Main causes of the incidents: • 381 due to faulty regulators (49.5%) • 142 due to faulty cylinders (18.5%) • 134 with no specific cause (17.4%) • 41 due to faulty stoves (5.3%) • 40 due to faulty hoses (5.2%) • 31 due to faulty pipes (4%)
More than 70% of these incidents are linked to poorly installed equipment or lack of proper maintenance.
Latest reported emergency The most recent case occurred at the PH Torres Montserrat, in Pueblo Nuevo, where a gas explosion on the 21st floor mobilized the DOEXBURE units. A man between the ages of 35 and 50 suffered second-degree burns, but thanks to the rapid intervention of the BCBRP, major structural damage was avoided.
Key BCBRP Recommendations: • React quickly to the smell of gas: ventilate, close valves, evacuate, and call 103. • Perform periodic hermeticity tests to detect leaks. • Hire only qualified and authorized personnel. • Comply with technical standards for all liquefied gas installations, avoiding improvised work that puts lives at risk.
Institutional Commitment The BCBRP reaffirms its commitment to continue with awareness campaigns, inspections, and community guidance to reduce the risks affecting families and communities.
