Propane Safety: How Can You Stay Safe This Winter?
Propane is one of the safest sources of home energy around, capable of delivering efficient, clean-burning heat and power to your Lansing, MI-area home. But it’s important to remember that propane is a still a combustible fuel – and as with any fuel, you have to take proper precautions and know how to handle any problems that arise when using it.
Important Propane Safety Reminders
- Make sure all adults in your home know how to shut the valve on your main propane storage tank. If you’re not sure how to do this , contact us.
- Learn how to identify a propane leak – and what to do if you have one.
- Know how to avoid and deal with carbon monoxide problems:
- Get a tune-up for your propane heating equipment every year; regular upkeep of your equipment will help technicians discover and prevent potential heating system problems.
- Learn the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, and what to do if anyone in your home experiences them.
- Clear vents, chimneys, and flues after a storm to make sure your home remains adequately ventilated.
- Install carbon monoxide (CO) detectors, following manufacturer’s instructions for placement and maintenance. Replace batteries at least once a year, and replace the unit as suggested by the manufacturer (usually every five or ten years, depending on the model). We also strongly recommend installing propane leak detectors to protect against the potential for propane odor loss during a leak.
- If a storm is forecast:
- Check your propane levels, making sure you have enough gas to last at least a week in case of road closures; if you don’t, schedule a propane delivery as soon as possible.
- Flag your propane tank so that the fill valve is visible in high or drifting snow.
- Always follow the instructions of local authorities.
- If 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 you system.
For more winter propane safety tips, visit the Propane Education Research Council (PERC) website.
Stay safe this winter – contact Lansing Ice & Fuel today if you have any questions about propane safety, or if you need reliable propane deliveries in Ingham, Eaton, Shiawassee or Clinton counties, MI.
