Propane Safety Check List

VERY IMPORTANT – IF YOU SMELL GAS – You must get everybody out of the house or RV immediately without making a spark, lighting a match or turning on or off a light switch. Turn the gas off at the tank. Then go to a neighbors and call our office. Await the arrival of a technician who will attempt to determine the source of the leak and decide corrective action.

  • Don’t use or store storage tanks in basements or living spaces.
  • Make sure your outdoor regulator on your tank or cylinder is free of snow and ice.
  • Don’t let yourself run out of gas. Leak tests are required anytime there is an interruption of service and they can be costly.
  • Do not leave portable tanks in cars or closed vehicles.
  • Properly secure propane tanks if you are going to be transporting them.
  • Propane is odorized and the ethyl mercaptan used is generally very effective. But on rare occasions, propane can lose it’s odor. This can be caused by :
    • The presence of air, water or rust in a propane tank or cylinder.
    • The passage of leaking propane through the soil.
    • Some people have nasal problems and may not be able to smell the odor or other odors may hide it.
  • Familiarize yourself and your family with the smell don’t ignore it.

propane burner

Carbon Monoxide (C0)

You can’t taste or smell Carbon Monoxide but it is very dangerous. High levels can come from burning any fuels with  appliances not working properly. Symptoms include Headache, Dizziness, Fatigue, Shortness of Breath and Nausea. If you suspect CO is present get everyone out of the house and call 911 or your local fire department. If it is safe turn off any appliances and open all windows to allow entry of fresh air.