Posted: January 21, 2019
When it comes to keep your family warm through a Massachusetts winter, few fuels do it better – or more safely – than propane gas.
But just because propane is one of the most reliable home energy sources around doesn’t mean you can take propane safety for granted; like any home fuel, you have to know what to do to keep your family safe in the event of an emergency.
Here are six important propane safety tips for the winter months ahead:
- Teach adult members of your family how to shut off your propane supply at the source (that is, at your propane storage tank). If you are not sure how to do that, contact us.
- Remind your family how to recognize the rotten egg odor of a propane leak – and what to do if they smell it.
- Never store or place propane cylinders indoors or in an enclosed area such as a basement, garage, shed, or tent.
- Never use outdoor propane equipment (grills, portable generators, etc.) inside: carbon monoxide (CO) emitted from these devices is a dangerous and potentially deadly hazard.
- Test and replace batteries in all CO detectors in your home, following the manufacturer’s instructions regarding maintenance (make sure you have enough propane to last for at least a week after the storm ends in case there are road blockages or closures.
- During a storm, listen to local authorities for instructions on the appropriate course of action to take.
- After a storm, clear snow and debris from vents, chimneys, and flues to reduce the risk of CO poisoning. Use a broom – not a shovel – to avoid damaging fragile system parts.
- If you suspect that any of your propane equipment has been damaged, contact us immediately for an inspection. Remember, if you shut down your propane gas supply, you are required to have a pressure test performed by a licensed propane contractor before you can use your propane equipment again.
Have any propane safety questions or concerns? Ask the experts at Frank Lamparelli – we are here to keep your family safe and comfortable all year round.
