Propane Safety: What to do if you Suspect a Leak

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You may think that propane leaks are more likely to occur during the winter months when propane is used for home heating. However, leaks can occur at any time of the year, especially during warmer weather when propane is used for grilling and outdoor fireplaces. 

Alamance Oil, a leading propane supplier in Burlington, wants you and everyone in your household to know what to do to safely respond to a possible propane leak. 

How to Recognize a Propane Leak

The first thing you’ll notice if there is a propane leak is the smell. Propane is naturally odorless, so a scent is added during production to make it easily detectable to people. The smell of propane has been described as smelling like rotten eggs, a skunk, or a dead animal. If you smell this inside your home or outside near your tank, you may have a propane leak. 

If you Suspect a Gas Leak, Follow these steps:

  • Leave the area. Get out of the house or away from the area where you smell the propane. Alert everyone in the home and area and make sure they leave as well. 
  • No flames or sparks. Extinguish any flames and be sure not to light anything. Avoid the use of anything that could cause a spark, including electronics like cell phones.
  • Turn off the gas valve. If it is safe to do so, turn off the gas valve on the tank. Turn it to the right or clockwise until it stops turning. Turn off all tanks you have on your property. 
  • Call your propane supplier or 911. If there is no immediate danger, call your propane supplier to report the leak. If there is a reason to be concerned about anyone’s safety, such as a fire, call 911. If your propane company is closed, call 911. 
  • Do not return to the area unless a professional deems it safe. Do not go back into your home or to the area where you suspect the leak until your propane supplier or an emergency responder says it is safe to do so. 
  • Have your propane appliances inspected. Before using any of your propane appliances, including your furnace or grill, have your propane supplier inspect them for safe operation and condition. In some cases, the leak may be caused by a faulty appliance instead of the tank or gas line itself. 

 

Not Sure Who to Call?

Most propane tanks have a company name listed and sometimes also a phone number to call in case of a problem or leak. If you’re not sure who your propane tank is supplied by, and you can’t find any information on the tank itself, call 911 to report the leak. Then call Alamance Oil who can help you through the free and easy process of swapping out tanks to become a new customer. Alamance Oil propane services include many benefits from discounted HVAC service to automatic deliveries. Call Alamance Oil today: (336) 226-9371 or request service.