MCA Public Services and Complaints Department head Datuk Michael Chong said that housewives must be careful when dealing with their gas stoves and gas hobs.

“Accidents happen due to technical problems caused by installation by unskilful technicians or the hose maybe leaking or the valve not properly tightened,” he said, adding that if they smelt gas, they should immediately switch off the main tank and open the windows and seek help.

Chong was commenting on the case of housewife Xie Fang, 36, who suffered second-degree burns on Oct 31 last year when she turned on the stove to prepare breakfast for her children. There were some technical problems with her gas hob.

“I felt a burning sensation on my face and body as a portion of my hair and eyelashes were also burned,” she said, adding that she also suffered burns on her arms and legs.

She said her neighbours sent her to the nearest hospital, as her husband was out of town during the accident.

Chong said that Xie sought legal advice and hoped for compensation from the manufacturer and distributor of the gas hob.

“I will take up this matter with the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry as there have been a few other cases before,” he said.