Winter storms can come unexpectedly, and are often severe enough to cause a major inconvenience for a homeowners heating system. Homeowners who use propane gas for heating their residences can exercise some common sense precautions before, during and after a winter storm to minimize any potential safety hazards to their property. Using this simple checklist will ensure you have considered all the important winter storm safety precautions and will provide a high level of security for both your property and, more importantly, your family.
Action items to take before a winter storm arrives:
Secure the safety of your propane tank by properly marking it with a colorful flag or neon painted poles or stakes. To increase the probability the flag or poles will be seen by snowplow operators, rescue vehicles, or service technicians, make sure that the poles are several feet higher than the average accumulated snow depths for your area of the country. Also mark underground tanks for ease of refilling.
Regularly check the tank to ensure you always have an adequate supply of propane. If a severe storm warning is forecast, immediately call your propane gas supplier and request that your tank be filled. Oftentimes after a winter storm, many streets or roads may not be plowed for several days making your home inaccessible for delivery.
Instruct family members on how and where to shut off the outdoor propane supply as well as all indoor propane appliances. Your propane supplier's service representative can assist you with this information.
Have written instructions so that any family member can easily turn off electricity, propane, and water sources. Additionally, Keep all operation manuals in an easy accessible place.
For extra safety, install a carbon monoxide detector on every level of your home. Carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding installation, location, and maintenance to ensure accurate results.
Propane gas detectors provide an extra and important measure of security. Install one or more propane gas detectors by carefully following the manufacturer's instructions regarding installation, location, and maintenance for optimum results.
Create an emergency preparedness plan and review it regularly with your family in order to keep them safe during a potential disaster.
Assemble an emergency preparedness kit that includes: Enough water to last for 5 to 7 days and provide at least one gallon of water per day for each person; Non-perishable canned or packaged foods to feed your family for 7 days; First Aid Kit; An adequate supply of medicines and prescription drugs; Pet needs; An extra supply of personal toiletries and hygiene Items; Flashlights and a supply of batteries; Cleaning supplies, trash bags and paper towels; Toys, books, games, a deck of cards, books, and a supply of paper and pens. Additionally, fully charge all cell phones (A satellite phone may be necessary as cell phones and land lines may be rendered inoperable). Action items to take during a winter storm: Be aware that snow and ice can create serious problems for your home's propane system by freezing and cracking pipes, regulators, valves, or other types of propane equipment. During the storm, regularly check all these items.
Action items to take during a winter storm:
Periodically clear away all snow and ice that has accumulated on and near your propane tank. Ii is important to note that pipes can freeze and crack causing leaking gas to pool in the snow which can become a potentially dangerous ignition source.
Clear snow and ice away from all outdoor vents, chimneys, and flues to reduce the potential for carbon monoxide poisoning. To prevent damage to any propane system component, always use a broom instead of a shovel.
Propane gas has a strong and unpleasant smell very similar to the smell of rotten eggs, a dead animal, or skunk's spray. Know this smell and shut off all propane sources.
Action items to take after a winter storm:
Methodically inspect your home, all structures, and the surrounding property. Immediately leave your premises if you have any concerns regarding your family's safety. Arrange to have your home inspected by a building inspector or carpenter before re-entering.
If it is dark, use only flashlights, not candles or any other source which could create a spark.
Carefully check your entire property for downed power lines. High winds or falling ice may have moved, shifted, or damaged gas lines and tanks. Immediately call your local utility company or propane supplier if any of these dangers exist.
Replenish your emergency preparedness kit in anticipation of another winter storm.
Following these precautions will ensure your family's safety. Although this article has focused primarily on propane gas, these are sensible procedures to follow regardless of your home's heating source. It is also important to discuss any other important precautions or any special needs with your propane gas supplier.
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