Safety Tips & Information

• Mark your propane tank location with a flag, pole or stake that is higher than the average snow cover depth for your area.
• Make sure you have an adequate supply of propane in your tank. In the event of a storm, roads leading to your home might not be accessible for delivery.
• Make a list of instructions on how to turn off the electricity, propane, and water.
• Consider installing carbon monoxide and propane gas detectors.

If a winter storm threatens your safety, you may have to decide whether or not to leave your home. Listen to a local television or radio station for information and instructions.

If you decide to stay:

• Clear snow and ice from around your propane tank. If pipes freeze and crack, gas can leak out and create a potential danger.
• Clear snow and ice away from all outdoor vents, chimneys, and flues. Whenever possible, use a broom instead of a shovel so you won’t damage your propane system.

If a power outage occurs, use a battery-powered radio to listen for instructions from local authorities. It is a good idea to turn off any lights and appliances that were operating before the outage occurred. This will reduce the risk of a power surge once the electricity returns.

During an extended power outage, you may choose to use a portable generator. However, NEVER use a portable generator indoors or in an enclosed area such as a basement, garage, shed, or tent. This can result in carbon monoxide poisoning or death.

If you suspect any of your propane appliances, equipment, or vehicles have been under water or damaged, or you have turned off your gas supply:

• DO NOT use or operate appliances, equipment, or vehicles, or turn on the gas supply, until your system has been inspected by a qualified service technician.
• DO schedule a time for a qualified service technician to perform a complete inspection of your propane system. The technician can also perform a leak test on the system and relight your pilot lights.

• Air and moisture could get into an empty or depleted storage tank. This can cause rust build-up inside the tank. Rust can decrease the concentration of the odor of propane, making it harder to smell.
• If your propane tank runs out of gas, any pilot lights on your appliances will go out. This can be extremely dangerous if not handled properly.

In many states, a propane retailer or a qualified service technician must perform a leak check of your propane system before turning the gas back on.

Establish a regular delivery schedule with your propane retailer. Also, periodically check the fuel gauge on your propane tank. If the fuel level drops below 20%, call your propane retailer.