Propane Safety Tips
Essential safety practices for residential and commercial propane customers.
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 gauge reads below 20%, contact us right away at (Local Store Number) 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 are unable to 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 it’s best to choose a spot that is away from living areas. Make sure that the gas valve is in the OFF position when storing your tank and NEVER store your propane tank inside your home or vehicle.
Store the Tanks in an Upright Position
Propane is not affected by freezing temperatures. In very hot weather, propane tanks can still be stored outdoors on a stable surface. Store tanks in locations not in direct sunlight for extended periods of time. Do not expose the tank to temperatures at or above 120°F (49°C).
Handling and Transporting Small Cylinders
Pilot Light
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 of time, 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 there are no leaks, we can also re-light your pilot lights if you need help.
Extreme Weather ConditionsHandling and Transporting Small Cylinders
In extreme heat and resulting dry conditions make sure the 10-foot radius around your propane tank and your propane grill is clear of any dry materials that could ignite.
In a 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.
Flooding or high winds can shift propane tanks, damage gas lines, or allow debris and water into regulators and controls—creating safety risks.
If conditions seem unsafe, leave the area, contact us, and have the property inspected by a trained professional.
More Information
You may also need to contact your local utilities as well before you dig.
Links to Safety Literature (PDF)
- Propane Safety
- Material Safety Sheet (Spanish)
- Carbon Monoxide Safety
- Safety Data Sheet
- Safety Data Sheet (Spanish)
Safety Measures Against Propane Leaks
Call us for round-the-clock service.
FAQs
Common Questions
Propane is naturally odorless. An odorant called ethyl mercaptan — which smells like rotten eggs or a skunk — is added to help detect leaks. If you smell this odor, evacuate immediately and call 911 from outside your home.
We recommend a professional inspection at least once per year for residential systems, and more frequently for commercial operations. Inspections cover all connections, regulators, hoses, and appliances.
If your tank runs out, do not attempt to relight appliances yourself. Call us to schedule a delivery and re-lighting service. Running out of gas can allow air and moisture into the system, which requires a pressure test before relighting.
No. Propane tanks should always be stored outdoors in an upright position. Never store tanks indoors, in garages, or in any enclosed space — even when tanks appear to be empty.
Most tank gauges show the percentage of propane remaining, not gallons. A reading of 20% or below means it’s time to schedule a delivery. We recommend calling when you reach 25% to ensure timely service.
GET IN TOUCH
Have a Safety Question? Reach Out.
Our team is happy to answer any propane safety questions.
Ready to Schedule a Safety Inspection?
Our certified technicians are available across all service areas. Most inspections completed same week.