When it comes to providing propane, Baribault’s highest priority is keeping you, your family, and your home warm, happy, and safe. Even though Propane is a safe fuel that provides us heat and fuel to cook, propane does need to be handled safely. Everyone in your home should know what to do if they suspect a leak.
What to do if you smell gas…
If you smell gas in or near your home, take the following steps immediately.
- Put out any flames. Immediately extinguish any items that have a flame – fireplace, candles, stove/oven, and any cigarettes or smoking materials. Do not operate any electronics like appliances, cell phones, lights, etc. If the smell of propane is very strong outside as well, do not start your cars. Flames or sparks from any of these sources could trigger an explosion or fire.
- Shut off the gas. If it’s safe to do so, turn off the main gas supply valve on your propane tank. Remember to turn the valve to the right or clockwise.
- Evacuate. Get everyone out of the house or area where you suspect the gas is leaking. Grab any pets if possible, as well.
- Report the leak. Go to a neighbor’s home or a nearby business away from the suspected gas leak and call your propane retailer and 911 as well.
- Be patient. Do not return to your home or immediate area until you are given the “all clear” from either your propane supplier or emergency responder.
- Have your system inspected. Once you are allowed back on the premises, you’ll want to make sure your propane supplier has serviced your entire system to fix the leak before you attempt to turn your propane tank back on.
As a homeowner, it is important to become familiar with your propane system so that you can take quick and appropriate action in case of a leak or other emergency.
Propane is delivered into your home as a very cold liquid into an approved storage tank. Before the propane leaves the tank, it is converted into a gas. Propane then flows from your tank through pipes into your home. You will have a main shut off valve that prevents propane from leaving the tank as well as individual shut off valves to individual appliances. You should know where all the shut off valves are in case of an emergency.
We know dealing with fuel issues can be both scary and time consuming. That’s why Baribault Fuel is available 24 hour a day, 7 days a week for emergencies. If you ever have any questions or safety concerns about your propane system, please feel free to call. We take safety very seriously and are always happy to help!
