Northern Safety

Keep your home warm and safe by checking all propane-operated heating equipment and appliances to ensure they are operating properly. Read the following tips to help make your home safe.

If you suspect a leak, call a licensed gas contractor immediately.

1. Outside, make sure your propane cylinder is upright and securely fastened to the wall. If it’s on its side, your appliance could malfunction resulting in a fire. If the cylinder is hanging by its hose, the hose could fail, resulting in a leak and a fire.

2. Always ensure the cylinder and valve are clear of snow and ice. Banking snow against them reduces fuel vapourization which means your appliances will be starved for fuel.

3. Keep your tank at least one-third full during the winter to ensure propane is supplied to your equipment and vaporizes properly.

4. Never store propane cylinders indoors. Propane is heavier than air and a leaking cylinder is extremely dangerous.

5. Be sure you only use your propane stove for cooking. It’s not meant for heating your house.

6. Keep all your appliances free of dust, lint and anything else that could catch fire. Do not store any flammable or combustible material next to your propane appliance.

7. Call a licensed gas contractor or propane supplier to ensure your propane equipment is serviced properly.

8. Don’t bank snow against your propane cylinder, as it reduces fuel efficiency and increases your costs.

9. Never use portable heaters in enclosed spaces (e.g. fishing shacks, hunting cabins) as they produce carbon monoxide and could be deadly.

10. If you smell an odour like rotten eggs, call a licensed gas contractor or propane supplier immediately.