PROPANE SAFETY

Propane is versatile, economical and safe, if used properly.  Propane fuel can be stored in a large tank and piped into your home (used for appliances, heating, etc.) or it can be purchased in portable cylinder tanks (commonly used for barbecues).  Either way, since propane is highly flammable and used in close proximity to your loved ones, you should know and understand how to use this product with care.  

If you use a propane supply in your home or cottage, allow qualified technicians to ensure your safety with regular service inspections.  Never tie pets or other objects (e.g. locked bicycles) to the meter or propane pipes.  When opening up your cottage after the winter, inspect the tank and piping since snow and ice accumulation may have caused stress to the system.  Before leaving your cottage, turn your supply valve off.  

Cylinder propane tanks should be used and stored outdoors in an upright position and in a well-ventilated area.  Keep your tank in the shade and never store propane in your home, your car or your garage.  When filling a propane tank, it should be filled by a qualified technician, to no more than 80 per cent capacity.  In Canada , cylinder tanks must be inspected before re-filling and must be replaced every ten years.  Propane tanks must be disposed of at approved Hazardous Waste disposal sites.  

Testing your barbecue propane tank.   A 50/50 mix of liquid soap and water solution applied to the valve and other connections on your barbecue will indicate a leak if gas bubbles form.  Remember to inspect and clean your gas barbecue according to the manufacture’s instructions.  Use a flexible brush designed to clean the tubes between the gas valve and the burner, as blockages can occur due to spiders or insects.  

Take a Propane Quiz and learn more...  

Source:  Canada Safety Council

July/2008