Does everyone in your household know what to do if they suspect a gas leak? Being prepared is the first step to staying safe. While gas leaks are extremely rare, they can happen and pose serious risks if not handled correctly. Propane has an added odorant with a distinct and unpleasant smell, often compared to rotten eggs, skunk spray, or a dead animal. This safety feature ensures that leaks are easily detectable. If you or a family member smell propane, it’s essential to act immediately to protect everyone in your home.
Step 1: Eliminate Ignition Sources
The first step is to eliminate all potential ignition sources. Put out smoking materials and extinguish any open flames immediately. Avoid operating lights, appliances, telephones, or cell phones, as these can generate a spark or ignition source that could ignite the gas.
Step 2: Evacuate the Building
Get everyone, including pets, outside and away from the building or premises. Safety is the top priority, and it’s essential to act quickly to ensure everyone is out of harm’s way.
Step 3: Shut Off the Gas Supply
If it is safe to do so, locate the main gas supply valve on your propane tank and shut it off by turning the valve to the right (clockwise). If you have multiple tanks, make sure to turn them all off to stop the flow of gas.
Step 4: Call for Assistance
Contact Fabian Oil at (207)-465-2000. Even if your local office is closed, our on-call representatives are available 24/7/365 to assist you. They can dispatch a service technician to your location promptly. If, for any reason, you cannot reach us, call 911 or your local fire department immediately. Remember to make these calls from a safe location, such as a neighbor’s house or another area well away from the property.
Step 5: Stay Away Until It’s Safe
Do not return to the building until a qualified professional, emergency responder, or one of our technicians has confirmed that it is safe to do so. Safety inspections ensure there are no lingering hazards before re-entry.
Step 6: Inspect Your System Before Use
Before using any propane appliances again, have your system inspected and tested by a professional. This step ensures your propane system is operating safely and efficiently, preventing further risks.
Share These Safety Steps With Your Family
Take a few minutes to share these steps with your family. Make sure everyone knows how to recognize the smell of propane and understands what to do in the event of a leak.
At Fabian Oil, your safety is our top priority. If you have any questions about propane safety or would like to schedule a system inspection, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here for you 24/7, ensuring your propane system keeps your home or business running safely and efficiently.
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