New Horizons Supply Cooperative

Propane Safety Tips for Your Home

General Tips

To readily recognize a leak, know what propane smells like. New Horizons has pamphlets available with a scratch-and-sniff spot so that your entire family can recognize the smell. Propane leak detectors, similar to carbon monoxide detectors, are available.

If you smell a leak, immediately evacuate everyone from the building, turn off the propane tank, and call New Horizons or the fire department from your neighbor's phone. DO NOT remain in the building, use the telephone or light switches, or try to determine the source of the leak by yourself.

Be aware of where gas service lines are located, especially when working in your yard.

Water can damage the internal safety mechanism in the gas controls of an appliance. If you suspect that your appliance gas controls may be wet (because of flooding, for example), have a trained technician replace them immediately.

Heating Appliances

All furnaces collect lint and dirt and should be cleaned regularly. Contact a trained technician for information on proper cleaning, and follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Water Heaters

Drain your tank periodically (until water runs clean - usually 2 to 3 gallons) to get rid of sediment buildup on the bottom of the tank.

Ranges

Have your kitchen range serviced if the burner flame is not blue. The blue flame indicates complete combustion. A yellow flame means air inlets are clogged or burners need adjustment. Contact a trained service technician immediately. Do not cover the oven bottom with foil - it can restrict air circulation.

Never use gas ranges for home heating.

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