Posted: March 6, 2015
Even though our winters tend to be milder than other parts of the country, we all know that Mother Nature still likes to surprise us Carolinians. That’s why it’s always a good idea to review ways to keep safe during extended bad weather. With that in mind, here are tips from the Propane Education and Research Council.
If you ever smell propane in your home, leave your house immediately and call for help.
Create an emergency plan and discuss it with everyone in your family. This plan should include instructions for how to turn off propane systems.
Prepare a disaster supply kit, which should include several days of water and canned food supplies, along with a can opener, extra clothes, blankets, flashlights, medications, batteries and supplies for your pets. You should also have a battery-powered radio. Make sure to keep rock salt, firewood, and snow-removal equipment accessible.
Make sure you have an adequate supply of propane if you know bad weather is coming. We recommend that you call for a delivery when your tank gauge reaches 30%. (Consider getting automatic deliveries so you don’t have to worry about running low on fuel).
Conserve fuel by keeping thermostats down to about 65 degrees.
Regularly check your flue pipes, vent connectors and propane tank and lines for damage, blockage, or debris. If you need to remove snow or ice, use a broom rather than a shovel to clear these areas without causing damage.
Be sure your home has carbon monoxide detectors. Carbon monoxide is a deadly poison that’s both odorless and invisible.
Never use outdoor propane equipment like portable grills or stoves inside your home.
If you have a generator, never operate it in your basement or garage. Always run a generator outdoors.
Following the above steps can help your family stay safe all season long. You can read additional propane tips here.
And feel free to contact us so we can inspect your equipment and make sure it’s running safely and efficiently.
Because at Parker Gas, we not only want you to feel comfortable with us, we want you to feel safe too!