Butane gas canister left on hob causes explosion

Firefighters are urging people to keep their hobs clear after butane gas canister left on the hob caused an explosion in a flat. 

Crews were called to St Andrews Lane, Basildon at 8.07pm on Monday night. 

The resident had accidentally switched on the hob instead of the oven dial, and a butane gas canister which was left on top of the hob heated up causing an explosion, which blew out the window.

Station Manager Nick Singleton said: “This is the second incident this month where a butane gas canister has been left on the hob, which has heated up and caused an explosion. 

“This is a plea from us to keep your hob clear. We often see incidents where the hob has been accidentally switched on so our best advice would be to keep the hob clear, even if you’re not cooking. Please do not use your hob as a worktop or storage area. 

“Take extra care when refilling lighters with butane to keep it away from all sources of heat, spark or direct sunlight.”