Propane is an efficient and versatile energy source that can be safely used for just about any appliance in your North Carolina home.
As with any fuel, however, using propane requires a basic knowledge of what to do to prevent and respond to problems and dangers that might arise during day-to-day use.
Here are three propane safety basics to keep in mind for your home and family:
1. Know how to detect a leak – and how to respond if you do.
Propane leaks smell like rotten eggs; teach your family to recognize the smell.
If you smell a leak,

• Do not operate lights, appliances, telephones, or cell phones. Flames or sparks from these sources can trigger an explosion or a fire.
• Shut the gas valve at the propane tank; f you don’t know how to do this, ask us.
• Leave the house immediately and call 911 from a safe distance away.
• As you leave the house, do not touch any electrical outlets or light switches.
• Once you are cleared to re-enter your house, contact us to set up an appointment for a propane inspection (see #3 below).

2. Install propane leak and CO detectors.
Rust in an older gas tank can mask the rotten egg smell of propane; so can the common cold. A propane leak detector prevents both those problems from threatening your safety.
Carbon monoxide (CO) detectors are also vital to your family’s safety, since CO is both odorless and deadly. CO detectors are inexpensive and available at most hardware stores – just be sure to follow manufacturers’ instructions for placement and replacement.
3. Maintain your appliances regularly.
Have your propane system inspected and serviced regularly! Inspections can spot small issues before they become more serious problems. If you think your propane appliance might be damaged, get it repaired immediately!
You can find more propane safety tips here.
Stay safe! Contact us today to learn more about propane safety in your home or business.