Propane Safety

 

► All homes and businesses using propane should have a propane alarm. Similar to smoke alarms, a propane alarm goes off when gas is present. But a propane alarm should be installed near the floor, not the ceiling, because propane is heavier than air.

► Never store propane indoors or in an enclosed space such as a garage, shed or crawl space.

► Read the instructions that come with all your gas-fueled products. Learn where the master shutoff valve is and how to operate it.

► Refill portable tanks before they are completely empty whenever possible. If a tank is emptied completely, ask your supplier to purge the tank before refilling it.

► Check outdoor equipment for leaks by brushing a soap solution on the valve, tubes, and connections and watching for bubbles. Leave indoor leaks to the professionals.

► If you smell gas, turn off gas appliance. Check for inoperative pilot lights and oven burners. Do not strike a match, use an open flame, or turn electrical switches on or off.

► If you can, shut off the propane at the supply tank and leave the area immediately. Stay far away and call the gas company or fire department.

► DO NOT open the windows to ventilate the area. Opening the windows can change indoor temperature, causing the heating or air conditioning to turn on.

► Learn what the odor of propane smells like. Ask for a scratch-and-sniff card from your local gas company. Check members of your family for impaired sense of smell.

More information:
Gas Grill Safety — Hearth, Patio and Barbecue Association
Propane Gas Grill and Range Safety Tips — National Propane Gas Association
Propane Safety Tips for Your Home — National Propane Gas Association