Propane Safety

Discover propane safety information and gas safety resources

Read propane safety tips and learn more about our commitment to propane safety below.

In Case of Emergency: Dial 1-800-633-8253

Propane Safety Procedures

If you use propane in your home or business, understanding propane safety tips can save your life. If you smell gas or believe you are experiencing a propane gas emergency, it is imperative that you immediately exit the premises. After you have moved to a safe location, call 1-800-633-8253 or 9-1-1 for immediate assistance. Gas leaks of all kinds are potential threats to life and property.

Signs of propane leak or other issues.

Top propane gas warning signs to pay attention to in your home or business.

It is important to understand the signs of propane leak or potential safety concerns for your home or business. Making sure everyone understands propane safety risks will help them detect a leak immediately and take the proper steps to get to safety and call emergency services. 

  • Smell test

    One of the top propane gas warning signs is the smell of rotten eggs. This smell is added to propane gas for safety. If you smell rotten eggs, leave the premises immediately.

  • Hissing Noise

    Another signs of propane leak is hissing noise around your propane tank, cylinder, or gas line. You may also see a cloud of debris near the noise. 

  • Irregular Flames

    Propane gas should always burn with a blue flame in your appliances. Yellow or irregular flames is a propane hazard sign that something isn’t right.

  • Signs of Propane Poisoning 

    The physical signs of propane leak you may experience include nausea, headaches, fatigue, dizziness, breathing difficulties, and more.

Propane safety training

Employees at Pinnacle Propane are heavily engaged in on-going training, education and awareness-building efforts to promote and advance the safe handling, use and maintenance of propane and propane-fueled equipment. We comply with all current regulatory standards for your safety. Our service technicians are thoroughly trained in testing of all systems and safety while delivering propane. 

What to do if there is an emergency gas leak

Even professionally installed propane tanks, gas lines, or appliances can break, crack or leak. It is iImportant to review the steps below in case you experience an emergency gas leak at your home or business.

  • Leave immediately

    The number one propane safety tip to remember is to leave the premises immediately if you suspect a gas leak.  

  • Report it

    After you are a safe distance away, call 1-800-633-8253 or 9-1-1 to report a gas leak to authorities.

  • No flames or sparks

    During an emergency gas leak, never touch light switches or light any flames until the gas is  safely off. 

  • Leave doors open

    Safely open doors and windows as you leave your home to allow the gas to escape and avoid build up.

  • Contact Pinnacle

    After your emergency gas leak has been dealt with, contact us so we can inspect your system and make repairs. 

Additional Propane Safety Tips

bbq grill

Grilling with propane

Grilling with propane is one of the safest ways to cook food outside. But, it is always important to follow proper safety guidelines for bbq propane tank safety. Always follow your grill manufacturer's instructions for assembly, use, maintenance, cleaning and storage. Also, remember to place your grill in a safe location. Preferably, at least five feet away from your house or other hazards. Always be present and never leave your grill unattended. Some propane cylinder safety tips include always holding and carrying it using the proper handles; follow instructions for attachment; never leave the cylinder in direct sunlight; and check for rust or damage before use.

cylinders forklift

Transporting propane cylinders

Propane cylinders and tanks are designed for safety. However, some precautions are necessary to follow when transporting one or more propane cylinders in a vehicle. Here are some propane tank transportation safety tips customers should follow in order to avoid issues. The first thing to consider is your vehicle. Make sure your vehicle can safely transport a propane cylinder so that it remains secure during the trip. Always check that the valve is closed before placing the cylinder in your vehicle. Always make sure to store cylinders in a secure and upright position. Never leave your cylinder in a hot vehicle and take the cylinder out of your vehicle as soon as you reach your destination. Make sure you follow connection instructions and always check for leaks.

Manual handling

Propane cylinders are heavy and should be handled with care. Not only should you practice propane cylinder safety to prevent damage to the cylinder itself, you also need to do so to prevent damage to you. Manual handling is one of the leading causes of workplace injuries. Always practice proper lifting procedures and use a back brace to prevent personal injury. Always carry propane cylinders using the handle in the upright position. These types of injuries can be prevented by distributing safety information and equipment, providing staff with advice and training on how to handle gas bottles, and rearranging methods of work to minimize manual handling.

Frequently asked questions

All propane tanks, including the cylinders you use for your BBQ grill, are required by law to have a safety relief valve installed by the manufacturer. The propane safety valve is there to protect your propane tank from rupturing if excess pressure builds up inside the tank. 
 If you suspect you have propane poisoning, call 9-1-1 immediately. Signs of propane poisoning include cough, dizziness, headache, nausea, fever, general weakness, passing out and even death. These symptoms are similar to carbon monoxide poisoning. 
Yes. A high concentration of propane in the air will displace oxygen, making it difficult for you to breathe. If less oxygen is available to breathe, symptoms such as rapid breathing, rapid heart rate, clumsiness and fatigue can result. Always leave immediately if you suspect a propane gas leak.
Yes. If you suspect an emergency gas leak in your home or business, leave the premises immediately and call 1-800-633-8253 or 9-1-1 to report the problem to the proper authorities. If you smell rotten eggs and hear hissing around your tank or gas line, these could be a sign of a gas leak.

More propane safety resources

Safety Data Sheet

According to OSHA HCS 2012

Pinnacle Propane Safety Data Sheet

 

PERC Resources

Propane Education & Resource Council 

https://propane.com/safety/

http://www.propanesafetyfirst.com/about.html

1-800-633-8253

24-Hour Emergency Number