Summer Propane Safety Tips
With the versatility of propane comes the fact that it can be used just about anywhere homeowners need to fuel their home comfort! Knowing how to safely manage your propane supply is one of the most important things propane users can do to maintain this safe fuel's safety streak.
Detecting & responding to a propane leak…
To start out, be sure to familiarize yourself and your family with the smell of propane – the 'rotten egg' or sulfuric odor is an additive that makes propane leaks more easy to detect. If you believe your propane system is leaking, follow these steps:
- Put out all open flames and smoking materials
- Leave the area immediately
- Shut off the gas (if safe to do so)
- Report the leak from a neighbor’s phone
- Get your system checked
Safely transporting propane cylinders for refill…
Especially during the summer, propane cylinders are being used to fuel barbecue grills and feed our party guests! When it comes time to bring your propane cylinder to a fill station, or home from one, be sure to do so safely!
- Keep it vertical: Propane cylinders are designed with a safety release valve at the top of the tank that will only work properly if the cylinder is kept upright. Use a large cardboard box or wooden crate to prevent the cylinder from rolling around in your car.
- Keep it cool: When transporting the propane cylinder, don’t leave it in your car for prolonged periods of time. Propane can be sensitive to heat! Don’t park your car in the sun. If you have to do shopping, make sure the cylinder is the last thing on your list!
- Keep it snug: Strap the cylinder in where possible. If you’re storing it in the trunk for transport, be sure to close the trunk slowly so it doesn’t bang against the valve on the cylinder. Provide a barrier to keep other objects in your trunk or your car from sliding around and puncturing the cylinder.
If you’d like to learn more about how to live safely with propane, don’t hesitate to contact Parker Oil! We’ll answer any questions or concerns you may have, inspect your propane system, and much more. Enjoy the rest of your summer!
