Safety Tips For Your Propane-Powered Maine Home

Propane is one of the safest and most versatile ways to power your home, but like any energy source, you need to know what to do to avoid problems with it – and how to act during an emergency if one arises.

Here are 7 key propane safety tips for your propane-powered Maine home:

1. Everyone in your house should know how to shut off your propane supply at the source. If you’re not sure how to shut your propane tank value, contact us. Your family should know how to turn off the electricity and water, too.
2. Teach your family how to recognize the rotten egg smell of a propane leak – and what they need to do if they smell it.
3. NEVER use outdoor propane equipment such as grills or portable generators inside your home. The combustion of propane gas emits carbon monoxide – an odorless gas that can be deadly if it’s not vented properly (see #5).
4. NEVER store propane cylinders indoors or in an enclosed area such as a basement, garage, or shed. ALWAYS store propane cylinders vertically and away from any source of heat or flame.
5. Install carbon monoxide (CO) detectors in your home, following the manufacturer’s installation and maintenance instructions. Know how to spot the symptoms of CO poisoning, and what to do if someone experiences them.
6. If severe weather is forecast:
• Make sure you have enough propane to last for at least a week after the storm ends in case there are road closures.
• Listen to your local authorities for instructions regarding local safety and evacuations.
7. If you are concerned that any of your propane appliances have been damaged, contact us immediately to test your equipment. Always remember: If you shut down your gas supply, even temporarily, the law requires you to contact a licensed professional to restart you system.

Have any propane safety questions? Just ask – nothing is more important than your safety!