Today, propane is the most common alternative fuel used in residential spaces, and it’s prized for the unrivaled comfort and energy-efficiency it provides. This winter, millions of households across American will rely on propane for home heating, water heating, cooking and drying clothes. To help residential propane users remain safe and comfortable all season long, consider these propane safety tips for winter.
- Stock up on propane: Make sure you have an adequate supply of propane. You should contact your propane supplier for a delivery when your tank reaches 30 percent full. During the winter the road conditions may be bad, and the demand for propane may be high. This provides your propane supplier with enough time to reach you before your supply runs out.
- Mark your propane tank: Mark your propane tank with a flag, pole or stake that’s higher than your area’s average snow cover depth. Having a marker for your propane tank will prevent you from plowing into or shoveling snow on top of the tank.
- Maintain a clear path to your propane tank: Keep the path to your propane tank clear of snow and ice so that it can be easily accessed throughout the winter months.
- Install propane gas and carbon monoxide detectors. Though propane is safe and environmentally friendly, a gas leak can be extremely dangerous. While a propane leak can be detected by the strong smell of rotten eggs, the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) recommends installing UL-listed propane gas and carbon monoxide detectors for additional safety.
- Have an emergency preparedness plan. In the event of an emergency, your family members should be able to locate the phone numbers for your propane suppler and local emergency services. Post these essential phone numbers in an accessible place, such as on the refrigerator or near the telephone. You should also prepare an emergency kit containing several days’ worth of canned food and water, a can opener, a first aid kit, medicine, a radio, flashlights, batteries, blankets and extra clothes. You may also want to consider installing a propane-powered generator, so your home will continue operating if the main power source fails.
These are some key tips to help you maximize your safety and comfort during the winter months. If you have not yet made the switch to propane, contact Gas Tec to learn more about our residential propane tanks. We offer many services for homeowners across Bucks County, PA and in parts of Delaware and New Jersey and help them reduce their energy costs and enjoy optimal comfort through propane.