Propane
Safety
Propane is a safe fuel when handled correctly. Read this page and share it with your household — knowing what to do before an emergency is the most important step you can take.
If You Smell Gas
Do not hesitate. Follow these six steps in order. Every second matters when there is a potential gas leak.
No Flames or Sparks
Put out all smoking materials and open flames immediately. Do not operate lights, appliances, telephones, or cell phones — sparks from any of these can trigger an explosion.
Leave Immediately
Get everyone — including pets — out of the building right away. Don't stop to gather belongings.
Shut Off the Gas
If it's safe to do so, turn off the main gas supply valve on your propane tank. Turn it to the right (clockwise) to close.
Report the Leak
From a neighbor's home or a safe distance away, call Freedom First Propane. If you can't reach us, call 911 or your local fire department.
Do Not Return
Do not go back inside until your propane retailer or emergency personnel confirms it is safe to do so.
Get the System Checked
Before using any propane appliances again, have a qualified technician inspect the entire system for leaks. Do not skip this step.
Recognizing
Propane
What Is Propane?
Propane — also called LPG or LP gas — is a liquid fuel stored under pressure. In most home systems, it vaporizes into a gas before leaving the tank. It is flammable when mixed with air and can be ignited by open flames, smoking materials, electrical sparks, or static electricity. Direct contact with propane liquid can cause severe freeze burn or frostbite — never handle tanks or lines without proper protection.
What Does It Smell Like?
Propane has a distinctive odor added specifically so you can detect leaks. It smells like rotten eggs, a skunk's spray, or a dead animal. If you notice any of these smells near your appliances or tank, treat it as a leak until confirmed otherwise.
What Is Odor Fade?
Odor fade is an uncommon but real reduction in propane's detectable smell. It can be caused by air, water, or rust inside a tank, or by propane leaking through soil. Because of this, respond to even a faint smell of gas — don't wait for it to get stronger.
A propane gas detector provides an additional layer of protection — especially in rooms that aren't used frequently or for occupants who may have difficulty detecting smells.
Only purchase detectors listed by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) — don't buy unverified units.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation location and maintenance carefully.
Never ignore the smell of propane even if no alarm is sounding. Detectors supplement your senses — they don't replace them.
Older adults, people on certain medications, and those with certain medical conditions may have a reduced ability to smell propane — detectors are especially important in these households.
CO Safety
Carbon monoxide cannot be seen or smelled. It is produced when any fuel — including propane — burns. High levels can cause brain damage or death. A malfunctioning appliance or blocked vent can produce dangerous CO levels without any visible warning.
Know the Signs
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Fatigue or unusual tiredness
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea
Symptoms can feel like the flu. If multiple people in the household feel ill at the same time, CO poisoning is a possibility — get outside immediately.
Improper Operation
- Sooting or black marks on appliances or vents
- Unfamiliar or burning odor
- Increased moisture on interior windows
Any of these signs could indicate incomplete combustion. Stop using the appliance and contact us or a qualified technician for inspection.
If You Suspect CO — Act Now
If Anyone Has Symptoms
Get everyone out of the building immediately and call 911 or your local fire department. Do not wait for symptoms to worsen.
Ventilate if Safe
If it's safe to do so, open windows to let in fresh air and turn off any appliances you suspect may be the source.
No Symptoms But Suspicious
If you suspect CO but no one is showing symptoms, call Freedom First or a qualified technician to check CO levels and inspect your equipment before using it again.
Prevention Checklist
Appliance & System
Maintenance
Annual Inspections
Have a qualified service technician inspect your propane appliances and venting systems at least once a year, ideally before heating season begins.
Keep Vents Clear
Check appliance vents and flues to ensure gases can flow freely to the outdoors. Clear away insect or bird nests, leaves, and debris that may accumulate, especially in spring.
Don't DIY Repairs
Never attempt to modify or repair valves, regulators, connectors, or controls yourself. Only a qualified service technician has the training to safely service these components.
Flammable Liquids
Store gasoline, paint thinners, and other flammable liquids away from any propane appliances. Pilot lights can ignite vapors from these materials even at a distance.
Pilot Lights
If a pilot light repeatedly goes out or is difficult to light, do not attempt to relight it yourself — call a qualified technician. A recurring issue signals a potential safety problem.
Older Connectors
Appliance connectors more than 20 years old may crack or break. Have a technician inspect them — do not move the appliance yourself, as movement can damage a compromised connector.
Don't Run Your Tank Empty
Running out of propane is a serious safety hazard. When a tank empties, pilot lights go out and appliance valves may be left open — creating a leak risk when the system is refilled. A leak check by a licensed technician is required before relighting anything after a run-out. Ask us about Keep Full delivery to avoid this entirely.
Important
Numbers
Bookmark this page so you have these numbers ready when you need them.