Yelutide: DPR Sensitises Public on Proper Use of Petroleum Products

The Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) says it has embarked on massive sensitisation of the general public on the proper utilisation of petroleum products for a safe environment during Christmas celebration.

Mrs Roseline Wilkie, the Zonal Controller DPR, Owerri stated this on recently in her office while intimating news men on the agency’s measures to ensure fire free environment during the season.

She said the sensitisation programme which commenced Friday, would see the agency’s staff visiting depots and petroleum stations in the state, for the awareness creation on measures to prevent occurence of hazards from petroleum products.

“By December 1, we will be monitoring petroleuem products remotely, right from the depots and outlets, in an automated manner.

” We will also monitor the trucks, we want to ensure the trucks are safe for movement to various destinations.

“We want to create the awareness that it is an unsafe act for people to go near a fallen truck talk less scooping fuel from it. We have had a few trucks that fell and we see people going to scoop the products.

“We will also engage in compliance, especially making filling stations to remind their customers on non use of phone while buying petroluem products,” Wilkie said.

On gas management, she advised that gas cylinders be kept away from sunlight and heat sources.

“If you are buying LPG cylinders, look for Nigeria Industrial Standard (NIS)number on the cylinder and always check cylinders for expiry dates.

“Repairing a faulty cylinder at home is unsafe. Always consult a certified technician. Replace hoses and valves at periodic intervals and immediately a leak is discovered.

“Ensure gas burner is turned off when not in use; have your cylinders checked regularly for leaks and integrity by certified professionals; sensitise household on safe handling practise; report any observed suspicious or unsafe practises at any gas station to the nearest DPR oficce,” she said.

On the aspect of PMS, the zonal controller advised the public not to keep petrol in jerry cans inside rooms, ensure it is kept well outside the living environment, while smoking or use of naked flame where petrol is being sold should be avoided.

She equally advised people to turn off their car engine at filling stations before buying fuel in their tank, and ensure that pouring petrol into a container, is done in a ventilated area and in a safe manner.

“Do not scoop any spilled PMS or petroleum products from a fallen tanker or damaged pipeline.

” Avoid panic buying during this yuletide because there is enough supply of petroleum products.

“We just commissioned a new 5000 BOPD Capacity Refinery at Ohaji Egbema in imo state owned by Waltersmith. This will contribute to product availability during and even after the yuletide,” she said.

…CCA