Propane Safety Rules
We stand by the safe record of propane for heating, cooking and more. Glider Oil keeps your propane systems running safely, reliably and efficiently. However, storms, construction or other events require additional safety measures. To help reduce the potential for injury or death, there are general propane safety rules you should observe at all times:
- NEVER use outdoor propane appliances indoors or in enclosed areas. This can result in Carbon Monoxide poisoning or death. This includes outdoor portable heaters, barbecue grills, and portable generators. Only use appliances indoors that are designed and approved for indoor use.
- Purchase and install smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors in your home (and know what to do before the detector sounds!).
- NEVER store or place a propane cylinder indoors or in an enclosed area such as a basement, garage, shed, or tent.
- NEVER use a gas oven or range-top burners to provide space heating.
- DO NOT UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES try to modify or repair valves, regulators, or other appliance parts. Call the experts at Glider Oil.
- NEVER turn on a light switch, use any power source, or inspect your household appliances while standing in water. This can result in electrocution.
- DO inspect chimneys, flue pipes, and vent connectors regularly for damage, blockage, or debris, especially after a storm.
- DO inspect your propane appliances for water or other damage, if it is safe to do so. If the appliances have electric components and have been exposed to water, they can create a fire hazard.
If your heating systems are working properly, you should not smell gas. Propane and natural gas are treated with a chemical to make give them an odor that has been compared to rotten eggs or sulfur. AT ANY TIME – If you smell gas inside or outside of your home:
- NO FLAMES OR SPARKS! Immediately put out all smoking materials and other open flames. Do not operate lights, appliances, telephones, or cell phones. Flames or sparks from these sources can trigger an explosion or a fire.
- LEAVE THE AREA IMMEDIATELY! Get everyone out of the building or area where you suspect gas is leaking.
- SHUT OFF THE GAS. Turn off the main gas supply valve on your propane tank, 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 building away from the gas leak, call your local fire department or dial 911, then call Glider Oil at 800-724-3835.
- DO NOT RETURN TO THE BUILDING OR AREA until your local fire department and your Glider Oil technician determine that it 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.
If your propane appliances have been damaged, shut off for any reason, or under water/flooded:
- Call Glider Oil and schedule a service call for one of our expert propane technicians to perform a complete inspection of your propane system. The technician will also perform a leak test on the system and re-light your pilot lights.
- DO NOT use or operate appliances, equipment, or vehicles or turn on the gas supply until your system has been inspected by a qualified service technician.
Video Resources
If You Suspect a Gas Leak
How to Turn
the Tank Off
How to Read a Tank Gauge
Getting Your Propane System Inspected
Appliance Conversions
Handling & Transporting Small Cylinders
