Gas leak prevention detectors: City government distributes 10,000 units

The Mexico City government has launched a free citizen protection strategy by distributing 10,000 gas detectors to vulnerable populations. This initiative responds to an urgent need: gas leaks have caused recurring tragedies in the city, including explosions and fires that threaten entire families’ lives. Recently, a gas buildup in a building in the Paseos de Taxqueña neighborhood, in the Coyoacán borough, caused an explosion that left five people injured and significant property damage, reaffirming the importance of having early warning systems.

Why is it urgent to prevent gas leaks in homes?

Gas leaks pose a silent danger in Mexican households. When they go undetected, they can lead to flammable escapes that cause explosions or uncontrolled fires. Preventing gas leaks is key to avoiding these tragedies. That’s why the Mexico City government, led by Mayor Clara Brugada, launched the “The Detector That Saves” initiative, a program aimed at equipping homes with detection technology.

The core idea is simple but effective: identify the presence of dangerous gases before they become an emergency. According to safety agencies, most accidents caused by gas leaks occur because residents are unaware of the buildup until it’s too late. A detector installed at home can make the difference between life and tragedy.

Technical specifications of Model A1: reliable protection

Mexican company Bitwo Electronics, specialized in electronic security solutions, was selected to supply the devices. The Model A1 is manufactured domestically and offers robust features specifically designed to identify flammable compounds in indoor spaces.

Device capabilities and features:

• Detection range: Identifies gases between 300 and 10,000 ppm (parts per million)
• Response time: 5 to 10 minutes at 1 meter distance
• Activation threshold: Activates below 20% of the lower explosive limit, for both propane and natural gas
• Sound alarm: Emits 90 decibels at half a meter, loud enough to alert residents
• Installation: Connects directly to any power outlet, with no complex requirements
• Durability: Sensor has a lifespan of 7 years, after which it must be replaced
• Climate compatibility: Operates in temperatures from -10°C to 50°C, adapting to city conditions

Recommended maintenance:

To ensure optimal operation, Bitwo Electronics recommends testing the detector weekly with a lighter, verifying that the alarm responds correctly. This simple procedure ensures the device is ready to detect gas leaks at any time.

How to get your free detector

In this initial distribution phase, the city government has indicated that distribution will focus on residential units across the city. Although there is not yet an open public call for individual requests, authorities have confirmed that they will soon publish eligibility requirements, distribution dates, and application mechanisms through official channels.

Details of the program are expected to be announced in the coming weeks, allowing interested citizens to register and receive their detector free of charge. This measure is part of a broader government strategy to improve safety in Mexico City homes and reduce the risks associated with gas leaks, which have historically claimed lives.

Distributing these 10,000 detectors is a significant step toward preventing domestic tragedies, making gas leak detection an accessible reality for vulnerable populations.