Propane is one of the most safe, effective and efficient fuels for your home – but like any energy source, care is required to operate propane appliances safely.
Here are three important safety reminders for your propane-powered home:
Know what a propane leak smells like, and how to respond to one – A propane leak smells like rotten eggs (propane itself is odorless, but manufacturers add the smell to make leak detection easy).
Teach your family to recognize the smell. If you smell a leak,
Do not any equipment that could cause a spark (lights, appliances, telephones, cell phones, etc.). A spark can cause a fire or an explosion.
Leave the house immediately and call 911 from a safe distance away.
As you leave the house, do not touch any electrical outlets or light switches.
Install detection equipment – Strongly consider installing propane leak and carbon monoxide detectors, which are great fail-safes in the event of a leak or build-up; they are inexpensive and available at most hardware stores.
Maintain your propane appliances – Have your propane system serviced regularly. A maintenance technician can spot a small issue before it becomes a more serious problem. If you think your propane appliance may be damaged, get it repaired immediately!