The gas explosion in Shiyan, Hubei Province has killed 12 people and seriously injured 37 people. What may be the cause?

A gas explosion occurred at the Yanhu Community Market in Zhangwan District, Shiyan City, Hubei Province. So far, 12 people have died, and 138 people were injured, 37 of whom were seriously injured. The scene of the explosion was a mess, with broken bricks, broken glass and some daily necessities that had been blown into pieces scattered all over the ground. The farmer's market is currently closed. The impact of this accident was relatively large. At present, relevant departments are making every effort to rescue the injured, maintain order at the scene, and investigate the scene to find out the cause of the accident.

The cause of the accident was a gas explosion. Gas is one of the important energy sources in residents' lives. It brings great convenience to people's lives, but it can also cause great harm if used improperly. The main component of natural gas is methane. Methane is a flammable gas. If it encounters an open flame when the concentration in the air reaches 5%-15%, it will be quickly ignited, then expand in a narrow space, and finally explode. The energy generated after the explosion will form a shock wave, destroying everything around it. At the same time, the high-temperature carbon dioxide and water vapor generated after ignition will cause skin and lung burns to people, and the debris generated by the explosion will expand with the gas. , is quickly ejected to the surrounding area, and has great lethality.

If you encounter a gas explosion accident, you must evade as soon as possible to avoid damage from shock waves and hot gases, and try not to stay in areas that are easily shattered by shock waves. If a gas explosion produces a large amount of smoke, try to find a wet towel or something with water in it, and cover your mouth and nose to avoid inhaling these gases and dust, which may cause lung damage.

Although hot weather has certain dangers, you must use it in accordance with the regulations during use. Someone must be on site during the use of gas, and natural gas pipelines must be inspected regularly to avoid leakage accidents due to aging pipelines. Be sure to ventilate when using gas. If there is a leak, do not turn on light bulbs, lighters, or make phone calls. These will produce sparks and cause explosions. Be careful when using gas.