Tips about using propane and when to use caution
Propane has a remarkable safety record, due in large part to the stringent codes and regulations developed by the propane industry and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). And in New York, propane companies and their technicians, drivers and staff all comply with state regulations that require periodic testing and training in order to ensure the safety of all concerned.
You can do your part by scheduling a service visit at least once a year so your propane company can check all your propane tanks and appliances for safe operation. Of course, your propane company can visit your property at any time if you have safety concerns. Safety is the top priority for your propane company and everyone else in the propane industry.
We encourage propane consumers in New York to learn more about propane and proper safety procedures. Below you’ll find information about what to do if you smell gas as well as other safety modules for the handling of propane, courtesy of the Propane Education and Research Council.
What to do if you smell gas
If you think you smell propane in your home, camper, RV or the area around any gas equipment, or if a gas alarm signals the presence of propane, you should IMMEDIATELY follow these suggestions:
- Extinguish all smoking materials and any other open flames or sources of ignition. Everyone should vacate the building, vehicle or area.
- Move away without using any electric switches, appliances, thermostats, or telephones.
- If it is safe to do so, close the gas shutoff valve on the propane tank or cylinder.
- Call your propane supplier and/or your local fire department from a mobile phone or a neighbor’s telephone.
- Even if you do not continue to smell propane, do not open or turn on the propane supply valve. Do not re-enter the building, vehicle or area. Let a qualified propane service technician and/or emergency personnel check for escaped propane.
- Have a properly trained propane service technician repair the leak. The propane service technician or emergency responder needs to determine that the leak situation has been fully resolved. The propane service technician should check all of your gas appliances and re-light any appliance pilots.
- Return to the building, camper, RV or area only when the service or emergency technician indicates it is safe to do so.
Do you want to know more about propane safety?
Contact your propane dealer at any time. If you smell gas or have another emergency, always call, DO NOT email.
The Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) has created the informative videos below to tell you all about propane safety.