Propane Safety Tips For Use in Travel Trailers, Mobile Homes
Release Date: December 15, 2005
Release Number: 1603-227
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BATON ROUGE, La. -- Hurricane victims who are temporarily living in travel trailers may be using propane fueled devices for the first time. For this reason, the Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has put together safety tips and informational points.
Safety is always of primary concern when dealing with compressed gas. However, when used according to safety guidelines, propane poses a very low threat because it is a nontoxic, nonpoisonous fuel.
Though flammable, propane has a narrow range of flammability when compared with other petroleum products.
Proper ventilation is one of the most important keys to safe propane use. For safety, propane is treated with a chemical to smell like sulfur (or "rotten eggs") so it can be detected in the event of a leak.
If you should smell escaping gas, open the window or door, go outside and shut off the gas at the propane tank. Do not touch any electrical appliances (including lights). Do not call 911 inside of the house, make sure everyone leaves.
If you are ever unsure what to do in the event of a gas leak, don't hesitate to contact your local fire department or the local propane dealer for help.
Here are some safe practices to keep in mind when utilizing propane appliances:
- Know where your shutoff valve is located and how to shut it off.
- Always be sure to have proper ventilation in your home.
- Never use grills or camp stoves indoors.
- Keep flammable and combustible materials away from open flames.
- Keep children and pets away from all heaters to avoid accidental burns.
- Don't assume that the smell of propane is because the tank is low.
- Never place your head near or directly over the valves on your storage tank.
For additional safety information, visit the Louisiana Propane Gas Association online at www.louisianapropane.com or by calling 225-763-8922.
Last Modified: Thursday, 15-Dec-2005 14:21:17