What is Propane?
- Propane is a liquid stored
under pressure in tanks and cylinders. In most systems, propane is
vaporized to gas before it leaves the tank or cylinder and is then
dispensed through a pressure regulator to your appliance. In its natural
state, propane is an odorless, colorless gas. A chemical odorant is added
to propane to give it a distinctive smell so the presence can be detected.
Propane is a convenient, versatile, and economical fuel for vehicles and
appliances (such as ranges, water heaters, and furnaces).
Emergency Procedure for a Propane Leak:
- If you are the first
responder and you smell gas in or around the house, business, or gas
equipment, follow the emergency procedure below.
- Put out all smoking
materials or other open flames.
Ø
DO
NOT operate electric switches.
Ø
DO
NOT light matches or use a lighter.
Ø
DO
NOT use the phone.
Any spark or flame in the area where propane is present
may ignite gas. This could include the
spark of a light switch, telephone, fan, or refrigerator motor, and even static
electricity from walking across a room or flame from a burner, pilot light or
cigarette lighter.
- IMMEDIATELY get everyone out
of the building, vehicle, trailer, or area.
- Close all gas tank or
cylinder supply valves.
Shut Off / Supply Valve
- Get away from the danger
area, approx 100 feet or more (HOT ZONE) and use your radio, cell phone
or a neighbors phone to call the fire department for further instruction.
Do NOT re-enter the building, vehicle, trailer, or area until a trained
service person or the fire department advises it is safe to return. Keep
all other persons away from the HOT ZONE!
- Let the fire department or
service personnel check for escaped gas. Make sure they air out the area
or building before allowing anyone (including yourself) to return.
Warning signs of a gas leak are:
1.
When
the presence of a foul odor persists.
2.
When
the smell lasts more than an instant.
3.
When
the reason for the foul odor can not be determined. What you think is garbage,
sewage, or a dead animal may be a serious gas leak.
4.
When
you hear a hissing noise near a gas appliance, piping, or storage tanks and
cylinders.
·
REMEMBER
to be hyper-aware of your surroundings and to keep ALL persons away from the
possible DANGER while it is present. Any propane fire encountered can produce
an explosion so keep this in mind at ALL times.
·
For
more information about safety issues and procedures when dealing with a propane
leak visit the NFPA website at www.NFPA.com
or call 1-800-344-3555. You can also contact the National Propane Gas
Association at www.NPGA.com or call them at
1-202.466.7200