Wednesday, March 5, 2014

Propane Safety and Thunderstorms

Thunderstorms Overview-FPO-image
With the upcoming Spring Season we can count on Severe Weather in our area.  Here is information you need to know about propane safety and how to keep your family safe during and after a thunderstorm. By taking a few simple propane-related safety precautions and discussing them with your family, you can reduce the potential for devastating property loss, personal injury, and even death.

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I SMELL GAS?

AT ANY TIME - If you smell gas inside or outside of your home:
  • NO FLAMES OR SPARKS! Immediately put out all smoking materials and other open flames. Do not operate lights, appliances, telephones, or cell phones. Flames or sparks from these sources can trigger an explosion or a fire.
  • LEAVE THE AREA IMMEDIATELY! Get everyone out of the building or area where you suspect gas is leaking.
  • SHUT OFF THE GAS. Turn off the main gas supply valve on your propane tank, if it is safe to do so. To close the valve, turn it to the right (clockwise).
  • REPORT THE LEAK. From a neighbor’s home or other building away from the gas leak, call your propane retailer right away. If you can’t reach your propane retailer, call 911 or your local fire department.
  • DO NOT RETURN TO THE BUILDING OR AREA until your propane retailer determines that it is safe to do so.
  • GET YOUR SYSTEM CHECKED. Before you attempt to use any of your propane appliances, your propane retailer or a qualified service technician must check your entire system to ensure that it is leak-free.


PRECAUTIONS TO TAKE WITH YOUR PROPANE APPLIANCES TO BE PREPARED FOR A THUNDERSTORM

BEFORE - Be prepared for thunderstorms
Know how and where to shut off the outdoor propane supply and indoor propane appliances. For more information, contact your propane retailer.
MAKE SURE THAT YOU AND YOUR FAMILY KNOW WHAT PROPANE SMELLS LIKE. Propane has a strong, unpleasant smell like rotten eggs, a skunk’s spray, or a dead animal.
NEVER store or place a propane cylinder indoors or in an enclosed area such as a basement, garage, shed, or tent.
It is recommended that you consider installing a carbon monoxide (CO) detector listed by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) on every level of your home. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding installation, location, and maintenance.
Propane gas detectors provide an additional measure of security. It is recommended that you consider installing one or more propane gas detectors listed by UL. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding installation, location, and maintenance.
Have a list of instructions on how to turn off electricity, propane, and water. Review suggested preparations for weather hazards such as thunderstorms with your propane retailer as well as other utility suppliers. Advise them of any special needs you may have.
Create an emergency preparedness plan and review it regularly with your family in order to keep them safe during a potential disaster.


IS THERE ANYTHING I SHOULD BE DOING DURING THE THUNDERSTORM?

DURING - If a thunderstorm approaches
Although thunderstorms are a common occurrence, it is important to prepare for and recognize their potential danger. Listen to your local authorities, or television and radio stations, for instructions on the appropriate course of action to take. If a thunderstorm approaches, the following steps are recommended:
  • If you are outside and can hear thunder, you are close enough to the storm to be struck by lightning. Go to safe shelter immediately.
  • Metal objects such as propane tanks and equipment, tractors, and telephone lines can conduct electricity. Do not go near them.
  • If you are caught outside and cannot get to a safe dwelling, find a low-lying, open place away from trees, poles, or metal objects. Make sure the place you choose is not subject to flooding.
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