Propane is one of the safest, most dependable home fuels around. It’s non-toxic and won’t harm your soil or water even in the event of a leak. If your home heating and appliances run on propane, you can feel confident in your safety.
Even so, it’s vital to have a plan ready in case there’s a propane leak. This means ensuring everyone in your family knows how to identify and react to the smell of gas. It also means knowing how to shut off your home’s propane tank.
First, ensure that everyone in your home knows how to identify the smell of propane, which is much like that of “rotten eggs.” You should also post emergency contact numbers—including your fuel supplier—where people can find them easily and quickly.
Take the time to explain to people in your house how to respond if they smell gas:
On horizontal tanks, there’s often a dome at the top that you can lift to access the gas shutoff valve. The valve is usually a screw-type handle that’s red or yellow. Once you find the valve, turn the handle clockwise until it’s tight. This shuts off the gas from the tank to your home.
Here’s a video that will take you through the process:
Regardless of whether you still smell gas, it’s essential to bring in a professional before reopening your propane tank or returning to your home. Use a neighbor’s phone or call from your cell once you’re well clear of the leak. The expert technicians at Poore’s Propane can help identify and fix any signs of trouble with your propane tank so you can get on with your life.
If you have any questions about your home’s propane-fired systems or appliances, or if you want to make an upgrade to your home’s existing propane tank, contact us today. We’d be happy to help.
