Propane Safety & Power Outages
Power outages can occur during any season and can range from being a simple inconvenience to, in some cases, a life-threatening situation. Almost any type of weather-related event can cause a power outage, ranging from extreme heat and thunderstorms to snow and ice storms.
Take These Precautions
Maintain Adequate Supply of Propane in Your Tank
If you Run Out of Propane, Call Your Propane Provider Immediately
By law, you cannot turn your propane back on until your propane provider or qualified service technician does a leak test.
Stay in Contact with Your Propane Provider
Keep the Path to Your Propane Tank Clear
Never Use a Stove or Bring Your Gas Grill Indoors for Space Heating, Even During a Power Outage
Conserve Energy During a Storm
Keep Outdoor Vents Clear
Never Use a Portable Generator (gasoline, diesel or propane) Indoors
Operating a generator in an enclosed area can result in carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning or death.
If You Smell Gas, Immediately:
- Put out all smoking materials, turn off open flames
- DO NOT operate lights, appliances, telephones, cellphones
- GO OUTSIDE, away from the home
- If safe, close or shut off the main gas supply valve – turn it to the right (clockwise)
- Call your propane supplier immediately about the leak or call 911
- DO NOT go back into the home until a propane provider, emergency responder or qualified service technician gives the OK
Create an Emergency Plan

Keep a List of Your Utility Providers Handy
> propane supplier
> natural gas or electric provide
> water provider

INSTALL A UL-LISTED GAS DETECTOR
> follow the manufacturer’s instructions related to installation, location, and maintenance

Plan for How to Communicate with People
> charge your cell phones before a storm hits
> keep a battery-powered radio as back up

If you Sense Danger, Call the Experts
> call your utility company, fire department and propane supplier
> if a storm passes through your property, have your utility systems check by a qualified service technician, stay away from downed power lines
What to do When Hit by a Flood:
- Propane tanks can float in water.
- If your propane tank is dislodged, the piping may disconnect from your system.
- Follow your emergency plan by contacting your propane supplier/utility companies to re-instate and complete a safety check your systems.