Now that winter has officially arrived, you will probably be spending more time in your cozy home – relying on your home heating system to keep it that way as temperatures here in Central MA start to drop into the single digits.
If that heating system is powered by propane gas, it’s a good idea to review some propane safety reminders as we head into the thick of another New England winter. Here are six important reminders for the cold days and nights ahead.
Teach the adults in your home how to turn off the supply of propane gas from your main storage tank. If you are not sure how to do that, contact us.
Never store propane cylinders indoors (i.e. in your basement, garage, shed, or any other enclosed area).
Never use outdoor propane equipment (grills, portable generators, etc.) indoors: they emit dangerous carbon monoxide (CO) as exhaust, which can become a dangerous or even deadly hazard as it accumulates in your home.
Check all carbon monoxide detectors in your home, replacing batteries and following manufacturer’s instructions regarding maintenance and replacement. We also urge you to install propane leak detectors, which will warn you of a leak in the event of propane odor loss. Know how to spot the symptoms of CO poisoning, and what to do if someone is experiencing them.
Place your propane delivery order when your tank is one third full to avoid running out of fuel, or sign up for automatic propane delivery and let us take care of managing your propane supply.
If severe weather is forecast:
Check your fuel levels – Make sure you have enough propane to last for at least a week after the storm ends in case there are road blockages or closures. If you have a propane backup generator, be sure to include it in your propane use calculations.
Flag your propane tank – Install a flag near your propane tank’s fill valve so you can find it after a significant snowstorm.
Listen to authorities – Monitor local media, websites, and apps for instructions on the appropriate actions to take.
Clear your property – Keep at least an 18-inch wide path to your propane tank clear for propane delivery teams and repair crews. Use a broom to clear all vents, chimneys, and flues to reduce the risk of CO poisoning.
Check your equipment – If you believe that any of your propane equipment has been damaged, contact us immediately for an inspection. Remember, if you shut down your propane gas supply, you are required to have a pressure test performed by a licensed propane contractor before you can use your propane equipment again.
At Pioneer Oil and Propane, your safety is always priority #1! If you have any questions about propane safety in your Worcester, MA-area home, please let us know.
