Propane

Hurricane Preparedness

  • Spend a Few Moments for Your Family’s Safety

    This module provides basic information about propane safety and how to keep your family safe during and after a hurricane.

    Click the Next button to move to the next screen.

  • Important Things to Know Before a Hurricane

    Know what propane smells like. It has a strong, unpleasant smell like rotten eggs, a skunk's spray or a dead animal.

    Know how and where to turn off the propane. This includes your outdoor tank and your appliances inside. For help, contact your propane provider.

  • If you smell gas, at any time, inside or outside your home:

    • 1. NO FLAMES OR SPARKS! Immediately put out all smoking materials and other open flames. Do not operate lights, appliances, telephones, or cell phones. Flames or sparks from these sources can trigger an explosion or a fire.
    • 2. LEAVE THE AREA IMMEDIATELY! Get everyone out of the building or area where you suspect gas is leaking.
    • 3. SHUT OFF THE GAS! Turn off the main gas supply valve on your propane tank, if it is safe to do so. To close the valve, turn it to the right (clockwise).

  • If you smell gas, at any time, inside or outside your home:

    • Continued
    • 4. REPORT THE LEAK. From a neighbor’s home or other building away from the gas leak, call your propane retailer right away. If you can’t reach your propane retailer, call 911 or your local fire department.
    • 5. DO NOT RETURN TO THE BUILDING OR AREA until your propane retailer, emergency responder, or a qualified service technician determines that it is safe to do so.
    • 6. GET YOUR SYSTEM CHECKED. Before you attempt to use any of your propane appliances, your propane retailer or a qualified service technician must check your entire system to ensure that it is leak-free.

  • Important Things to Do Before a Hurricane

    • Make sure you have enough propane in your tank to last for a few days.
    • Make a list of instructions on how to turn off the electricity, propane, and water.
    • NEVER put or keep a propane cylinder inside or in an enclosed area such as a basement, garage, shed, or tent.
    • If you live in a flood zone, make sure your large propane tanks are fastened down securely.
    • Review propane safety information provided by your propane retailer.

  • Should You Stay or Go?

    If a hurricane approaches, you could be in danger. Listen to your local television and radio stations to find out if you must leave your home or farm.

    If you decide to stay:

    • NEVER use outdoor propane appliances indoors or in enclosed areas. This can result in carbon monoxide poisoning or death. These include outdoor portable heaters, barbecue grills, and portable generators.
    • NEVER use a gas oven or range-top burners to provide space heating.
    • NEVER store or place a propane cylinder indoors or in an enclosed area such as a basement, garage, shed, or tent.

  • Turn Off the Gas

    If a hurricane threatens your safety, turn off the gas.

    1. Turn off the main gas supply valve on your propane tank, if it is safe to do so. To close the valve, turn it to the right (clockwise).
    2. Turn off the gas supply valves located near individual indoor appliances. Consult your propane retailer to make sure you know where the actual valves are located and how to shut them off.

  • After the Hurricane Has Passed

    Use caution when returning to your home or farm:

    • Check for fallen trees. These can damage your propane equipment.
    • Check for downed power lines. These can create a major safety hazard.
    • DO NOT enter any buildings on your property unless it is safe to do so. If it is dark, use flashlights, not candles.
    • If you think your propane appliances may have been under water or damaged in any way, DO NOT use it until a service technician indicates it is safe.

  • Identifying Dangerous Situations

    Use your mouse to identify the four potential hazards in this picture. Click on the hazard to learn more.

  • What Have You Learned?

    Read each statement below. Decide if the statement is true or false.

    True False
    Teach your kids what propane smells like.
    Bring your propane grill into the house from outside.
    Use your gas range-top burners to keep the house warm.
    Keep an extra propane cylinder inside in case you need it.
    Make sure your large propane tanks are fastened down securely.

  • Make Time for Safety

    Thank you for making time for propane safety. To learn more, download our brochure ‘Propane Safety for You and Your Family’ or visit: propane.com

  • Thank you for completing the e-Learning Module: Hurricane Preparedness

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