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Late-Winter Propane Safety: 5 Tips

Propane gas is one of the safest and most efficient ways to power and heat your Connecticut home. But like any fuel, you have to know what to do to keep your family safe if the unexpected happens.

Here are five propane safety reminders for late winter and severe winter weather:

Know how to shut off the supply of gas to your home from your propane storage tank, and teach everyone in the house how to do it. If you’re not sure how to do that, contact us.

Learn how to identify a propane leak – which smells like rotten eggs – and do the following if you discover one:

Avoid touching any equipment that could cause a spark (lights or light switches, appliances, telephones, cell phones, etc.); a spark can cause an explosion.
Get everyone (including pets) out of your house immediately and call 911 from a safe distance away.
If it is safe to do so, turn off the propane gas at the tank.
When inspection teams say it is safe to return to your home, do so – but do not use your propane equipment again until it is inspected by a professional.

Following manufacturer’s instructions, install carbon monoxide (CO) detectors on every level of your home.

During a winter storm,

Check your propane levels, making sure you have enough gas to last a week in the event road closures disrupt propane deliveries.
Follow the instructions of local authorities.
Clear snow and debris from vents, chimneys, and flues after a storm to reduce the risk of CO poisoning; use a broom rather than a shovel to avoid damaging your equipment.

If you suspect that any of your propane equipment has been damaged or isn’t working properly, contact us right away for service and repairs. Remember: if you shut down your propane gas supply, Connecticut law requires you to hire a licensed propane professional to restart you system.

Stay safe this winter – contact Hocon today if you have any questions about propane safety in your home, or if you need a propane delivery in CT.