LEARN ABOUT SAFETY

Propane is the fuel source for more than 60 million Americans. Using this nontoxic energy source helps cut emissions and protect the environment. Because propane vaporizes into a gas, the dangers of large volumes of liquid or residues entering the environment after a spill are eliminated.

The following FAQs and related educational modules created by the Propane Education & Research Council will make it easy for you to learn how to confidently and safely use propane.

KNOW THE ODOR OF PROPANE

The purpose of the odorant is to help people detect the presence of propane. It is important for all members of the household to be able to distinguish the smell of odorized propane. Ask your propane dealer for a demonstration of the distinct smell if you are not familiar with it. Certain conditions may prevent a person from smelling the odorant, such as:

• Colds, allergies, congestion or other similar medical conditions
• Use of tobacco, alcohol and/or drugs
• Decline in a person's sense of smell due to age or other physical conditions
• Olfactory fatigue from being exposed to the odorant for a period of time
• Strong odors overpowering the smell of the odorant
• Leaking gas passing through soil, reducing the smell of the odorant
• Sleep – the odorant in propane may not awaken a sleeping person

IF YOU SMELL A LEAK

• DO get everyone out of the home and move away a safe distance.
• DO attempt to shut off the valves at the tank.
• DO call both your propane supplier and the fire department for help from a telephone that is a safe distance from the house.
• DO NOT attempt to find the leak.
• DO NOT attempt to repair your appliance or light your pilot light.
• DO NOT turn light switches on or off inside the home.
• DO NOT use a telephone inside the house or in nearby areas.
• DO NOT light matches anywhere inside or near the home.

DO YOU KNOW WHAT PROPANE SMELLS LIKE?

Contact your local propane dealer for a free scratch-and-sniff brochure.

What to Do if You Smell Gas
Can You Smell It?