Collaroy BBQ gas cylinder explosion: Two men were rushed to hospital on Sydney's northern beaches
- Balcony fire in unit caused by explosion of gas cylinder
- A warning was given about the use of gas bottles
Two men suffered burns and smoke inhalation after a barbecue gas cylinder exploded, forcing the evacuation of dozens of residents.
The gas cylinder is believed to have caught fire before exploding at a unit on Pittwater Road in Collaroy, on Sydney's northern beaches, on Wednesday evening.
Firefighters rushed to the apartment complex after the fire broke out on the balcony of a second-floor home.
The fire threatened to spread to the upper floors of the complex, forcing fifty residents to be evacuated.
Sixteen firefighters spent at least half an hour battling the fire, which was confined to the balcony.
Firefighters rushed to the scene of the massive inferno after a gas cylinder exploded on the balcony of a unit on Sydney's northern beaches
A man in his 20s who was standing next to the barbecue at the time was taken to Royal North Shore Hospital with minor burns.
A Good Samaritan neighbor who tried to put out the fire before firefighters arrived was taken to Northern Beaches Hospital after suffering smoke inhalation.
The damage was limited to the balcony on the second floor.
The evacuated residents have now been able to return to their units.
“Once the fire was extinguished, firefighters spent some time on scene cooling the gas cylinder and ensuring it did not reignite,” Fire and Rescue NSW Chief Inspector Adam Dewberry told Daily Mail Australia.
It is understood the fire was caused by a leaking hose attached to the gas cylinder, prompting authorities to repeat warnings about its use during the summer season leading up to Australia Day.
'Due to the large number of barbecue fires, especially on balconies, we ask people to be very careful with them. Make sure you turn off the gas when you're done with it,” Supt Dewberry said.
'The most important thing is to make sure there are no gas leaks, check the connection and ensure there is a bit of distance between the barbecue and any hobs nearby.'
About 50 residents were evacuated from the seven-story complex
Damage was limited to the second-floor unit where the explosion occurred
Barbecue accidents can be prevented by regular checks.
'Book and maintain your barbecue regularly,' says Supt Dewberry.
'Make sure there is always a garden hose or something similar with continuous water available.
'If a gas leak does occur, immediately close the cylinder and allow any gas to drain.'
Also check the date stamp on the gas bottle, it is valid for 10 years.