Propane Safety Tips For Winter

Propane is one of the best ways to keep your family warm and safe when temperatures drop here in Connecticut – but as with any fuel, you have to know what to do if the unexpected happens.

5 Key Winter Home Safety Tips

Here are five key propane safety tips for the late fall and winter:

1. Keep an eye on your propane gauge – A no-heat emergency could put your family at risk during a cold snap here in CT. If you’re a Will Call customer, keep a close eye on your propane tank levels, especially during frigid stretches – or just become a Jennings Automatic Delivery customer and let us worry about it.
2. Learn how to shut the gas – Make sure all adults in your home know how to shut the valve on your main propane gas tank in case of emergency. If you’re not sure how to do that, contact us.
3. Know how to detect a propane leak – Remember, a propane leak smells like rotten eggs. Make sure everyone in your home knows what to do if you discover one.
4. Check your detectors – Replace batteries and check your carbon monoxide and propane leak detectors at the beginning of the season, replace any malfunctioning equipment immediately. Check manufacturer’s instructions to see how often detectors should be replaced.
5. Test run your generator – A propane backup generator provides unparalleled peace of mind – but only if it works when you need it to. During the winter, run your generator once a month for about 30 minutes to keep parts lubricated and seals maintained. Be sure to also have enough propane on hand to keep your generator operating for at least a week in the event of a long-term power outage.
6. Know what to do during severe weather – If severe winter weather is forecast:
• Check your propane levels, making sure you have enough gas to last at least a week in case of road closures;
• Always follow the instructions of local authorities;
• Clear snow and debris from vents, chimneys, and flues after a storm to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
• If you suspect that any of your propane equipment has been damaged or is not working properly, contact us right away. Remember: if you shut down your gas supply for any reason, the law requires you to hire a licensed professional to restart you system!

Stay safe this winter – contact Jennings Oil & Propane if you have any questions about propane safety in your home!

Jennings Oil & Propane – serving Fairfield, Litchfield & New Haven Counties since 1982!