How many people died in Clarkston gas explosion?
How many people died in Clarkston gas explosion?
21 people
WHAT’S THE STORY? IT was 50 years ago today that Scotland’s worst peace-time explosion on the mainland ripped through the Clarkston Toll shopping precinct south of Glasgow. Some 21 people died in the immediate explosion and collapse of buildings, with the final victim dying some weeks later in hospital.
What was the Clarkston disaster?
The 1971 Clarkston Disaster happened when a pocket of gas below a row of suburban shops in Glasgow erupted – caving in an overhead car park and spilling its cars into the scene of destruction. The might of the explosion was likened to a blast from a 300lb bomb.
Who died in the Clarkston disaster?
Members of the Clarkston community marked the 50th anniversary of the town’s gas explosion which took 22 lives with a ceremony. Photo by Gordon Terris. Neil McPherson was just 13 years old when he lost his sister Karen Fisher in the blast.
When was the Clarkston gas explosion?
October 21, 1971
On October 21, 1971, just before 3pm, a pocket of gas below a row of shops on Clarkston Toll erupted. The stores were destroyed, an overhead car park collapsed, 22 people were killed and more than 100 people were injured.
Does natural gas explode?
Gases such as natural gas, methane, propane and butane are the most common types of gases to cause explosions because they are commonly used for heating purposes.
Where was the Clarkston disaster?
Clarkston
Clarkston explosion/Location
How do gas explosions happen in homes?
A wide array of household devices can be to blame, he explains. Some are caused by gas cylinders used for portable heaters or barbecues. Some have been caused by the gas inside aerosol cans, like acrylic paints or cleaning products found in the cupboard. And some have been sparked by petrol, rather than gas.
Why do houses explode from gas leaks?
The explosion is caused when the rapidly expanding, burning gas is confined and builds up pressure. The most common cause of gas explosions are natural gas leaks through leaking hoses, defective control valves or gas connectors, or leaking propane tanks that can cause propane explosions.
What should you not do if you smell gas in the kitchen?
What Not to Do if You Smell Gas
- DO NOT enter the premises if you notice a strong gas odor or if there is other evidence of a natural gas leak.
- DO NOT smoke, or make a spark or flame.
- DO NOT turn on any electrical switches, appliances or lights as an electrical charge could create a spark.
How do you prevent gas explosions in the kitchen?
How to prevent Gas Cylinder Explosion
- Keep the gas knob out of reach for children when not using.
- Make sure that the kitchen or cooking area is well ventilated for a good flow of air in case of a gas leak.
- Educate people around you on gas cylinder safety measures and how to use and handle gas cylinders.
Why did the House in Plano explode?
Neighbors initially believed lightning from a passing storm could have been to blame, though fire investigators said the explosion was the result of an isolated gas leak. Then, two days after the blast, Plano police said it “may have been intentional.” Police added that it appeared to be an isolated incident.
What caused the explosion at Clarkston Toll?
The explosion followed a build-up of gas in an underground space beneath the Clarkston Toll shopping centre, caused by a gas main leak later ruled to have been accidental.
Was no one to blame for the Clarkston disaster?
Scottish Television produced a programme on the Clarkston disaster which aired on 20 November 2017. ^ a b c “Disaster jury says no one was to blame”. Glasgow Herald. 11 February 1972.
What happened in the Busby Road explosion?
The impact of the blast – the equivalent of a 300lb bomb going off – reduced a row of Busby Road shops to rubble. The disaster was caught on camera by our sister title, the Daily Record, as photos show the devastation caused by the horror gas leak.
What was Scotland’s worst peace-time explosion?
It was Scotland’s worst peace-time explosion, ripping through a south side precinct and killing 22 people, as well as injuring more than 100. The Clarkston Toll disaster of October 21, 1971, is one which sticks in the minds of Glaswegians almost 50 years later.
