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Propane Safety Before, During, and After a Thunderstorm
Propane Safety Before, During, and After a Thunderstorm
Posted: August 19, 2019
Summer is prime time for thunderstorms here in the Northeast, although these powerful displays of nature can linger into the fall. When they do, it is important to be prepared if you use propane equipment in your Southern Maine or New Hampshire home.
Keep these tips in mind to keep your family safe during an electrical storm.
Before a thunderstorm
Be on the lookout (or smell-out) for propane leaks – Make sure your family knows the rotten-egg smell of propane, and what to do if they detect it. Knowing that smell can help you detect a potentially dangerous leak that could worsen if your propane tank is damaged during a thunderstorm. We also urge you to install propane detectors in your home, which can detect a propane leak even in the absence of its telltale odor.
Have an emergency plan – Make sure all adults living in the house know how to shut the gas main off at your propane tank, and do this if you choose to evacuate your home. This will prevent damaged tanks from creating dangerous leaks that could ignite in your absence.
Anchor your tank – Make sure your aboveground propane tank is securely anchored to your property, particularly if you live in a flood- or storm surge-prone area.
During a thunderstorm
Focus on protection – Stay indoors, as far away as possible from power lines and conductive metal objects (including your propane tank); these can be extremely dangerous during an electrical storm. Avoid being under tall structures that attract lightning, including trees and poles, and listen to authorities for instructions on possible evacuations.
After a storm
Inspect your property – Look for downed trees, tree limbs, and power lines that could potentially damage your home or propane tank. Once the storm has passed, check all your propane appliances for signs of damage or improper function. If your power is out, do NOT use candles to examine your equipment – this could create a very dangerous situation if there is a propane leak.
Contact us immediately if you suspect damage has occurred – If you think your propane tank or gas line could be damaged, call us immediately. Our technicians will inspect and test your propane and equipment to make sure it is working safely and correctly. If you smell a propane gas leak, follow these instructions immediately.
