Winter Propane Safety Tips For The Home
When it comes to keeping you warm through the coldest months of the year here in Sullivan County, propane is one of the best and safest bets around. But as with any fuel, you have to know what to do if the unexpected happens in your propane-powered home.
Six keys to propane safety:
- Watch your fuel levels – Losing heat can be dangerous in our neck of the woods. If you’re a Will Call customer, keep a close eye on your propane tank levels, especially during frigid stretches.
- Do a detector check – Check your carbon monoxide and propane leak detectors at the beginning of the season, replacing batteries and non-working equipment immediately.
- React quickly to a propane leak – Remember, a propane leak smells like rotten eggs. Make sure everyone in your home knows what to do if you detect one.
- Know how to shut off the gas at the tank – Make sure all adults in your home know how to shut the main valve on your main propane gas tank in case of emergency. If you’re not sure how to do that, contact us.
- Run your generator – During the winter, run your propane backup generator once a month for about 30 minutes to keep parts lubricated and seals maintained. Be sure to also have enough propane on hand to keep your generator operating for at least a week in the event of a long-term power outage.
- Be ready for severe weather – If severe winter weather is forecast:
- Check your propane levels, making sure you have enough gas to last at least a week in case of road closures;
- Always follow the instructions of local authorities;
- Clear snow and debris from vents, chimneys, and flues after a storm to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
- If you suspect that any of your propane equipment has been damaged or is not working properly, contact us right away. Remember: if you shut down your gas supply for any reason, the law requires you to hire a licensed professional to restart your system!
Stay safe this winter – contact Black Bear if you have any questions about propane safety in your home!
Black Bear – Serving Sullivan, Northern Orange, and Eastern Ulster Counties and the surrounding area