Department of Sports, Taipei City Government

As the Mid-Autumn holiday approaches, families everywhere are gearing up for barbecues. Common items like charcoal, fire starters, lighters, and blowtorches are often used in the grilling process. Moreover, many also opt for portable cassette gas stoves for barbecuing. According to statistics from the Taipei City Fire Department, there have been 15 gas canister explosions from 2018 to September 2023. These accidents have been attributed to improper usage of barbecues, blowtorches, and cassette gas stoves.

Investigations into these cassette gas stove incidents reveal that some explosions occur when pans or grill plates extend beyond the stove stand. The radiated heat from these oversized plates can cause the gas canister to overheat, expand, and explode. Other incidents have resulted from gas canisters not being properly connected to the stove, leading to gas leaks and fires. The Fire Department emphasizes the importance of safety when gathering with friends and family for a barbecue and advises against risky grilling practices. Safety tips include:

1. Ensure proper ventilation: Do not use stoves in enclosed or air-conditioned spaces to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
2. Use proper BBQ equipment: Avoid using grill plates or cookware with poor heat conduction or those that emit toxic substances when heated, such as stones or discarded computer casings.
3. Keep a bucket of water or a fire extinguisher nearby: Keep the area clear of flammable items like cardboard, which could catch fire from sparks.
4. Extinguish charcoal completely: After grilling, ensure all coals and embers are thoroughly put out and cooled before disposal.
5. When using a portable cassette gas stove, ensure the product has a CNS mark. Read the instructions and be mindful of the following:

1. Ensure the stove and gas canister show no signs of rust or deformities, and that they can be placed stably.
2. Properly align the "ring buckle notch" upwards, fitting it properly into the stove. Check for gas leaks before lighting. 
3. Do not use oversized pots or grill plates that extend beyond the stove stand, which may compromise the seal and elevate the pressure inside the gas canister, leading to gas leaks or explosions.
4. Never store spare gas canisters near or under the stove. Keep away from other heat sources to prevent potential explosions.
5. After use, immediately remove the gas canisters from the stove and store them in a cool (below 40°C), dry, well-ventilated area and away from direct sunlight.

Lastly, many choose to dine at barbecue restaurants during the Mid-Autumn Festival. For restaurant owners, regularly cleaning the exhaust ducts is crucial to prevent grease fires. By following these barbecue safety guidelines, families can ensure a peaceful and joyful Mid-Autumn celebration.

The spare gas canister, mistakenly placed in the stove, exploded upon ignition due to the heat.