Why should electricity be turned off when lighting gas pilot?

Question

I was thinking it was in case the pilot didn't light, in which case gas buildup could be sparked by electricity. If that is why, should the whole room be turned off?

Answer 1

If the pilot doesn't light right off, kill the gas then consider shutting off elec. before trying again.

Answer 2

When dealing with propane it is proper to make sure all electrical things which could cause a fire to be off when lighting a pilot for safety reasons. They do not want the heater come on while you are right there lighting it in case of a huge roll out. Believe it or not people will try and light a gas appliance without even blowing out the cobwebs or oiling the motors or cleaning the burners.This leads to deadly fires. So the safety commission places that warning on all heaters now.

Answer 3

The Chief sounds like he's done this a few time. I know for a fact that when I am called to a job that I have to deal with natural gas it's one thing but when I deal with propane I take so many more safety measures because of the danger with LPG.
It is so heavy it sinks to the floor and unless you have your nose on your toes you would never know there was a problem. Seen too many places and lives lost from people using LPG and not being safe with it. SO BEEEE Careful and follow directions.

Answer 4

I think if just in case there is gas leak.....so the whole house will not blow up