By Ogar Monday
The Cross River State Government has warned residents about the lurking dangers in the purchase and use of adulterated kerosene as it is prone to explosions which could lead to deaths.
The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Dr. Joseph Bassey issued the warning Monday when in the company of the Health Commissioner, Dr. Inyang Asibong visited victims of explosion due to the use of adulterated kerosene at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital UCTH.
Bassey said Government is working assiduously to ensure there is an end to the menace. He said the health ministry will collaborate with the Ministry of Petroleum Resources to make sure the issue is thrashed and charged Cross Riverians to be vigilant as most reported cases came arose due to negligence on the part of the buyer.
The Head of the Accident and Emergency unit of UCTH, Professor Ikpeme Ikpeme disclosed that there has been an increase in the cases of patients admitted with burns from Kerosene in March 2017 with five cases reported from March 24 to March 26, 2017.
He cautioned kerosene users to use different containers for fuel and kerosene and desist from refilling lanterns while they are on or switch to electric lanterns which he said is cheaper and safer to use.
One of the victims, Anietie Asuqou who resides in the Nyangasang area of the state capital said he had bought Kerosene one evening from across his house and was trying to refill his lantern when it exploded and caught his cloth.
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