If you haven’t already come across the mischievous little yellow creatures that first appeared in the 2010 animated film, Despicable Me, chances are you soon will. Loved by children and adults for their cute and cheeky nature, the scene-stealing Minions have become so popular that this summer moviegoers were treated to a film devoted to them.

Clever marketing and merchandising has ensured the quick rise to fame of these adorable little characters, but not everyone is so happy about it.

The trade body representing the UK’s Liquefied Petroleum Gas industry, UKLPG, is cautioning against the potential hazards of converting cylinders to look like the fun-loving stars, and other film and TV characters. It has warned converting gas cylinders, commonly used by campers and caravanners, is an act that is both unlawful and highly dangerous.

UKLPG is reminding homeowners and budding artists that throughout the duration of their product lifecycle, gas cylinders remain the property of the gas cylinder company and should always be returned.

Rob Shuttleworth, CEO of UKLPG, said: “LP Gas cylinders are portable, convenient and have a very good safety record, which is why they are used so widely in the UK to provide much needed heat and power.
“However, the isolated incidents of individuals irresponsibly converting these cylinders, thus risking life-changing injuries or even death, should be a warning to everyone. The cylinders are designed for reuse upon return, so there is no need to recycle them for alternative purposes.”
LP Gas and other industrial gases are sold to customers in reusable cylinders that remain the property of the individual supplier company.

Click here for more information on how to return your empty cylinders.