Propane Safety and Practices

What To Do if You Suspect a Gas Leak

If you smell gas (an odor similar to rotten eggs or sulfur) or think you may have a gas leak, exit the premises immediately. Contact Basin Propane or 911 for emergency assistance from a telephone outside the home. Stay away from the property until a trained professional gives you an all-clear. Gas leaks can be a life-or-death situation and must be taken very seriously.

• Contact us for emergency assistance
• Put out any open flames and ignition sources. DO NOT USE ANY APPLIANCES
• Everyone must exit the house right away
• Shut off the gas to the house at the main supply valve on your propane tank(s)
• Stay away until a trained professional gives you the all-clear
• Have your propane system inspected for the cause of the leak

General Precautions When Using Propane

Reading Your Propane Tank Gauge

Propane tanks are considered full when the gauge reads 80% (the empty 20% allows for expansion of the propane vapor). If the meter reads below 20%, contact us immediately for delivery.

Shutting Off Your Propane Tank

If you think your portable propane tank or grill tank is leaking, and it is safe to turn off the tank valve, turn it to the right (clockwise). If you cannot turn off the valve, leave the area and dial 911 or call your local fire department. Before you use the grill again, have a qualified professional inspect your grill and tank.

Propane Tank Storage

Storing propane tanks outdoors is safe, but choosing a spot away from living areas is best. Ensure the gas valve is in the OFF position when storing your tank, and never keep your propane tank inside your home or vehicle. Always store the tanks in an upright position on stable surfaces.

Propane is not affected by freezing temperatures. In very hot weather, propane tanks can still be stored outdoors on a stable surface. Be sure to keep tanks in locations not in direct sunlight for extended periods. Do not expose the tank to temperatures at or above 120°F (49°C).

• NEVER STORE YOUR TANK ON ITS SIDE OR UPSIDE DOWN 
• Always ensure that the gas valve is in the OFF position when storing your tank
• Never store your propane tank inside your home or vehicle

Pilot Light Safety

Re-lighting your pilot light can be dangerous. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and warnings concerning the appliance. Contact a trained professional or our customer service team for further guidance.

When You Are Away From Home

If you are going to be away from your home for an extended period, consider shutting off all of your propane supply valves, including the main supply valve on your propane tank and the gas supply valves on each appliance. When you return, IT IS CRITICAL THAT YOU CALL US to conduct a leak check before your propane supply is turned back on. After we confirm that there are no leaks, we can also re-light your pilot lights if you need help.

Extreme Weather Conditions

In extreme heat and resulting dry conditions, make sure the 10-foot radius around your propane tank and your propane grill are clear of any dry materials that could ignite.

In flood or stormy conditions with very high winds, propane tanks can shift, damaging gas lines and the tanks themselves. A large propane tank can float away, hitting objects in its path. Water and debris can find their way inside regulators and controls, causing potential safety issues. If you question the safety of the current conditions, leave the area immediately, alert us, and have your property inspected by a trained professional before re-entering.

Take a moment to educate yourself with these videos:

Carbon Monoxide Safety

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To reduce the risk of carbon monoxide, have a trained professional check your appliances and venting systems regularly.

On a regular basis:

• Keep chimneys, flues, and vents free of debris, including leaves, animal nests, snow and ice, and other obstructions
• Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the placement and use of vent-free appliances, including fireplaces and logs
• Make sure you have a UL-listed carbon monoxide detector on every level of your home
• Make sure your chimney flue damper (if equipped) is always open when you use your fireplace
• Never use a gas oven or stove burner for space heating.
• Never use outdoor portable heaters inside unless designed and approved for indoor use
• Never use a barbecue grill (propane or charcoal) indoors for cooking or heating
• Never operate a propane-fueled piece of equipment (lawn mower, generator, or snow blower) in enclosed areas, including your garage

Call Before You Dig - 811

Links to Safety Literature (PDF)

• Propane Safety Information
• Propane Safety Information (Spanish)
• Safety Data Sheet (SDS)
• Safety Data Sheet Spanish (SDS)