Propane
Safety and Wildfires |
Steps to
keep you and your family safe |
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Wildfires can spread quickly and destroy
or damage homes and property. If your home or business uses propane to generate
heat or run appliances, there are a few simple steps you can take to keep
your family safe and avoid potential dangers. |
- Clear at least a 10-foot area around your propane tank and
gas grill of any debris. Remove anything that is combustible
or easily ignited, including leaves, brush, vegetation, and rags. Make
sure the grill and all propane cylinders are at least 10 feet from any
structure.
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- Never store, place, or use a propane cylinder indoors or in
an enclosed area such as a basement, garage, shed, or tent.
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- Create an emergency preparedness plan and review it with
everyone in your family. Post a list with contact information
for your propane retailer and emergency services along with instructions
for turning off propane, electricity, and water.
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- If a wildfire threatens your safety, you should shut off
the gas. Turn off the main gas supply valve on your propane
tank, if it is safe to do so. Also turn off the gas supply valves located
near individual indoor appliances. If you have a propane fireplace or
log set, close any screen, door, or damper.
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- After the wildfire danger has passed, take the time to carefully
evaluate the condition of all the structures on your property.
If it is dark, use flashlights, not candles. Check for downed power
lines. Inspect your gas lines and tank for damage. Inspect chimneys,
flue pipes, and vent connectors for damage, blockage, or debris. Immediately
call your local utility company or propane retailer if any of these
hazards are observed.
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- Never use outdoor propane appliances indoors or in enclosed
areas. This can result in carbon monoxide poisoning or death.
These include such appliances as outdoor portable heaters, barbecue
grills, and portable generators. Only use appliances indoors that are
designed and approved for indoor use.
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- Have a qualified service technician perform a complete inspection
of your propane system if you suspect any of your propane appliances,
equipment, or vehicles have been damaged, or you have turned off your
gas supply. Never use or operate appliances, equipment, or vehicles,
or turn on the gas supply, until your system has been inspected by a
qualified service technician.
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- Exercise sound judgment. Stay calm; use radios, television,
and telephones to stay informed and connected. Remember, wildfires can
last several days and roads may be inaccessible for fuel delivery or
emergency services.
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- Take immediate action if you smell gas inside or outside
of your home or business. Follow these simple instructions:
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1. No flames or sparks! Immediately
put out all smoking materials and other open flames. Do not operate or turn
on or off lights, appliances, telephones, or cell phones. |
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2. Leave the area immediately!
Get everyone out of the building or area where you suspect gas is leaking. |
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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). |
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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. |
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5. Do not return to the building
or area until your propane retailer, emergency responder, or qualified
service technician determines that it is safe to do so. |
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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. |