Let’s Talk Propane Safety
Virginia homeowners know all about the versatility of propane and how they can use it to power home heating systems, water heating systems, standby generators, cooking ranges and so much more. Since it’s being used in so many applications, many of which are used all year long, safety is the utmost importance!
Propane is a safe fuel thanks to various rules and regulations put in place, but the buck doesn’t stop there. Homeowners who rely on propane should know what to do if they detect a propane leak in their homes.
If you smell propane in your home, here’s what you need to do:
- NO FLAMES OR SPARKS! Immediately put out all smoking materials and other open flames. Do not operate lights, appliances, telephones, or cell phones. Flames or sparks from these sources can trigger an explosion or a fire.
- LEAVE THE AREA IMMEDIATELY! Get everyone out of the building or area where you suspect gas is leaking.
- SHUT OFF THE GAS. Turn off the main gas supply valve on your propane tank if it is safe to do so. To close the valve, turn it to the right (clockwise).
- REPORT THE LEAK. From a neighbor’s home or other nearby building away from the gas leak, call us right away. If you can’t reach us for any reason, call 911 or your local fire department.
- DO NOT RETURN TO THE BUILDING OR AREA until a Parker tech or your local fire official determines that it is safe to do so.
- GET YOUR SYSTEM CHECKED. Before you attempt to use any of your propane appliances, a qualified gas service technician from Parker must check your entire system to ensure that it is leak-free.
With these steps in mind you can confidently continue to enjoy using propane for all of your springtime fueling needs! And for a little extra peace of mind, take advantage of our automatic propane delivery service. Call or contact us online to enroll today.
