Propane Powered Home Safety

Propane has a stellar safety record – among the best when it comes to home energy sources. But like any fuel that you burn inside your home for heat, you need to take proper precautions when dealing with propane or propane appliances – and know what to do, quickly, if a problem arises.

Here are some important propane safety reminders for winter 2020:

1. Learn and teach all adults in your home know how to shut the valve on your main propane storage tank in case of an emergency. If you don’t know how to do this, contact us.
2. Make sure everyone in the house knows how to detect a propane leak (follow your nose…propane smells like rotten eggs) – and what to do if you suspect you have one.
3. Be proactive to prevent carbon monoxide (CO) problems:
   • Professionally service your propane heating equipment every year – this will help technicians spot a potential CO hazard early.
   • Install carbon monoxide 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.
   • Clear vents, chimneys, and flues quickly after a storm to make sure your home remains adequately ventilated.
   • Learn the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, and what to do if anyone in your home experiences them.
4. If severe weather is on the way:
   • Make sure you have enough propane 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 and accessible 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 for any reason, the law requires you to hire a licensed professional to restart your system.

For more winter propane safety tips, visit the Propane Education Research Council (PERC) website.

Stay safe this winter – contact Dorr Oil and Propane today if you have any questions about propane safety, or if you need reliable propane deliveries in Northshire, Stratton Mountain, Bromley Mountain, or the surrounding areas of Vermont.

Dorr Oil – Keeping homes in the greater Manchester, VT area warm for more than 20 years!