Survey of Gas Safety Awareness Among Households Using Reticulated Gas in Warri

Household gas safety awareness is a critical determinant of incident prevention in areas supplied by reticulated domestic gas systems. This study surveys the level of gas safety awareness and safety behaviour among households connected to reticulated gas supply systems in Warri, Delta State, a city with one of the highest concentrations of domestic gas connections outside Lagos in the South South geopolitical zone. The research employs a descriptive survey design, utilising structured questionnaires administered to 280 households in Okumagba Layout, GRA, and Efurun residential areas. The questionnaire assesses awareness of gas safety procedures including odorant recognition, appliance maintenance practices, emergency response knowledge, knowledge of main valve operation, and behaviour during suspected leaks. The study also examines the correlation between safety knowledge levels and socioeconomic variables including education level, years of gas connection use, and participation in gas utility safety education programmes. Findings reveal that while odorant recognition awareness is high (78 percent of respondents), knowledge of correct emergency leak response is alarmingly low, with only 34 percent correctly identifying the sequence of actions to take during a gas emergency. The correlation analysis shows a significant positive relationship between formal education level and safety knowledge scores. Recommendations include mandatory safety induction for new gas subscribers, installation of illustrated safety information plaques in kitchens of gas-connected homes, and annual safety awareness campaigns by the gas distribution utility. Keywords: gas safety awareness, household, Warri, reticulated gas, consumer education.