We preach safety a good deal in our business because frankly, we have to. Our business and the industry at large takes a tremendous amount of time and energy to ensure that our employees and customers are safe in their handling, transportation and use of propane. Propane in its normal state is actually odorless. An odorant, ethyl mercaptan is added so that folks know if there is a leak. The smell of this additive has become synonymous with the smell of propane, and that is desired intent.

When you smell gas, the first thing you need to know is do not cause any sparks or attempt to create an open flame. It is best to leave the area immediately. If it is safe to do so, shut off the main valve on the tank. If it is not safe, simply leave the area and call our office and/or the fire department. Do your best to keep others away from the area until the situation has been resolved. Going forward, be sure to get your system check and maintained in regular recommended intervals.

If you have any questions about propane safety, ask a Styer Propane professional and he or she will be happy to assist you in addressing your query.

At Styer Propane, we have been providing propane to homes and businesses across the Delaware Valley for over 20 years. In that time, we have made it our number one goal to provide comprehensive safety information to our customers via print and online materials as well. For those who use propane as a source of energy for their home or business, it is important that you are familiar with the smell of propane gas and that you know what to do if you smell gas in the building. Do you?

Here are some important safety tips for what to do in a situation where you smell propane gas:

• Avoid Open Flames and Sparks – Immediately put out all smoking materials and other open flames. Do no operate lights, appliances, telephones, or cell phones. Flames or sparks from these sources can trigger an explosion or a fire.
• Evacuate the Area – Get everyone out of the building or area where you suspect gas is leaking.
• Shut Off the Propane –  Turn off the main gas supply valve on your propane take if it is safe to do so. To close the valve, turn it to the right (clockwise).
• Report the Leak. From a neighbor’s home or other nearby building away from the gas leak, call your propane retailer right away. If you can’t reach your propane retailer, call 911 or your local fire department. Do Not Return to the Building or Area until your propane retailer determines that is safe to do so.
• Get Your System Checked. Before you attempt to use any of your propane appliances, your propane retailer or a qualified service technician must check your entire system to ensure that it is leak-free.