Was checking the news when I came across this tragic item


http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2011/02/27/3150081.htm

Just saw it on TV Pete, a tragedy. They said the victims have been taken to burns units all over the state, so must be badly injured.

Timely reminder to all of us to treat LPG with great respect wonderful servant but must be treated with respect , It amazes me when fellow Grey Nomads talk about cvering low vents in caravan doors to kept dust and cold out these vent are gas vents and should never be covered or seal off at any time these vent may save your life think first why would the caravan maker put them there because the law maker make them for our safety

One factor that is sometimes overlooked is that LPG is heavier than air and tends to sink rather than rise, hence the requirement for the vent in the door (usually the lowest part of the van). This can be a trap in that gas can collect in the base of a barbecue, especially when the piezo igniter is misbehaving.

-- Edited by jimricho on Sunday 27th of February 2011 07:43:33 PM

I understood the gas bottle itself must have been close to the campfire as it ignited. ? Always keep gas bottles away from fire/heat.

The gas cylinder could have been a safe distance but if the value was leaking the gas can drift a long distance , but do not know any of the cause of this situation .

I thought they said it fell over. Not sure what it was being used for.

My comments in my earlier post were intended to be general in nature as "we" won't know the circumstances in this tragic incident until it is fully investigated.

This event happened 1/2 hour drive from here, local news tonight said that there was an  altercation, & the gas bottle was kicked into the fire.
Alcohol use is being investergated, doesn't sound like an accident.
Seven burnt, a couple with 3rd deg to 80%.

What a shocking thing to happen makes you realise just how careful you have to be with LPG yes and I have heard caravan owners saying that they block the door vent in their vans makes you wonder rather have a bit of dust than maybe disfiguired for life or worse. Helena.

According to the ABC news article , it is now a crime scene . Might hear a bit more about this one yet .

I wouldn't draw any conclusions from the term "crime scene" at this stage. This may be just a legal precaution in case any of the unfortunate victims fail to survive making it the subject of a coronial inquest. (That's only a general comment as I'm only a layman when it comes to matters legal.)

terrible tragedy, lived in creso for 7 years probably knew the people not that i stay in touch with many from there but awful news.

Apparently it was a Tall gas lamp , when it got knocked over into the fire it broke & the gas became a 'flame thrower' . Setting the boys tent on fire , the bloke went in to save the boy - boy 35% - man 45% burns - poly tent . One of th things of modern day , make it lighter , make it cheaper - Richo

HI all I dont like having LPG to my its one of those evils you have to have when traveling, always worried about leaks, we always turn it of of a night at the bottle. we feel for those inoscent involved lyn

I used to cover the lower of the 2 vents at the bottom of the door, mostly to keep water out. I have a back door behind the wheels and find water and bits kick up from the wheels into the vent, in spite of the fact they face backwards. I removed the cover a long time ago and won't replace it. I don't use gas in the van. I cook outside, the fridge is on 240V, and I don't use the hot water service in the shower and sink at this time. I'm very aware of gas safety. We can never be too careful with the stuff.