Propane Safety Tips for Winter

Propane is perfectly safe when handled and stored properly. That being said, a little education on the subject can ensure you have the knowledge to protect you and your family. Please remember these essential propane safety tips for winter.

Practice Safety FIRST!

Regardless of the season, safety should always be a top priority when using propane:

Take the time to review these tips with your family and make certain everyone knows what to do in an emergency.
Never attempt to modify or repair propane equipment yourself.

Know the Smell of Propane

Propane is an odorless gas. An additive called Ethyl Mercaptan is used to achieve that distinctive rotten egg smell. This is to make sure a gas leak can be quickly detected. On rare occasions, propane can lose its odor. This can be caused by air, water, or rust in the tank. Sometimes a person may have difficulties smelling a leak due to the effects of medication, age, etc. In cases like these, gas detectors can be extremely useful and are a great safety measure. They work by simply sounding an alarm when propane is detected in the surrounding air.

What to Do if You Suspect a Leak

Extinguish Open Flames
Do not use electronics or appliances. This includes cell phones. Do not turn your lights on or off. ANYTHING that can cause static or a spark can trigger an explosion.
Leave the Building
Make sure all people and animals are out of your home and are a safe distance away.
Turn Off the Gas
If you can safely do so, turn your tank’s service (shut-off) valve clockwise until it’s completely closed.
Report the Leak, Stay Away, Call Keystone Propane: (800) 598-5047
If you can’t reach us immediately, call 911 or your local fire department. Stay away from the area until a Keystone technician checks your system and gives you the “All Clear”.

Monitor Propane Levels

Running out of propane can be more than an inconvenience; it can disrupt your heating system and lead to costly repairs. If your tank does not have a tank monitor, check your propane tank levels regularly and schedule a delivery before they drop below 30%.

Here are just a few of the consequences of running out of propane:

Air and moisture can get into your tank causing rust. Over time, this can weaken the integrity of your tank and rust makes a leak harder to smell because it decreases the concentration of odor.
If your tank runs out of gas, any pilot lights on your appliances will go out. This can be extremely dangerous.
If an appliance valve or a gas line is left open, a leak can occur when the system is filled.
In order to meet federal code requirements, any interruption of service requires a leak test be performed (at your cost) by a qualified technician.

Store Propane Tanks Safely

Always store portable propane tanks outdoors and in an upright position. Never store them in a basement, garage, or any enclosed space where a leak could pose a hazard.

Clear Snow and Ice Around Tanks and Vents

Accumulated snow and ice can block vents, regulators, and access to propane tanks, increasing the risk of malfunction or leaks. After heavy snowfall, carefully clear snow from these areas using a broom or brush. Avoid using metal tools that could damage your equipment. It’s also necessary to clear your driveway and make a path to your tank so deliveries can be made.

Use Propane Appliances Responsibly

Only use propane appliances for their intended purposes. For example, never use an outdoor grill or portable propane heater indoors (unless the heater is designed for indoor use). Outdoor appliances used indoors can emit dangerous levels of carbon monoxide. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe operation.

Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Carbon Monoxide (CO) is an odorless gas that is produced whenever something burns. This dangerous gas can come from faulty appliances or venting systems that are not operating properly. High levels of CO can make you dizzy or sick. In extreme cases, CO can cause brain damage and death. Things you can do to avoid/detect a build-up of CO gas:

Install CO detectors on each level of your home.
Do not use portable heaters indoors unless they are specifically approved for indoor use.
Routinely check your appliance’s exhaust vents for blockages.

Signs You May Have High Levels of CO in Your Home

Black, sooty marks or yellow/brown stains on your appliances and vents.
Yellow flames from your appliances instead of blue
Pilot lights frequently going out
People or pets exhibiting symptoms of CO poisoning that seem to lessen after spending time away from your home

Know How to Shut Off Your Propane Supply

Stopping the flow of propane is easy enough. Simply turn the service (shut-off) valve clockwise until tightly closed. The service valve is on the top of your tank and works like a water faucet. Just think of the old saying, “righty-tighty, lefty-loosey”. Please remember, closing this valve should be done only if necessary. A leak check must be performed after any interruption of propane service occurs.

In Closing

Hopefully, you’ve found these propane safety tips for winter both educational and helpful.
For more information about propane safety, you can download this handy brochure here: