Power outages can happen in any season. They can be a minor inconvenience or a serious threat to life in some cases. Most weather-related events can cause a power outage, including snow and ice storms, thunderstorms, hurricanes, and extreme heat.
If your home uses propane, there are a few simple steps you can take to keep your family safe and avoid potential dangers.
1. Create an emergency plan for power outages.
Review the plan with everyone in your family. Post a list with contact information for your propane retailer and emergency services (such as your local fire department). Include instructions for turning off propane, electricity, and water. If you do need to turn off your propane, contact a service technician to inspect your propane system prior to turning it back on.
2. Install UL-listed detectors.
Propane gas and carbon monoxide detectors provide you with an additional measure of security. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding installation, location, and maintenance.
3. Prepare a family disaster supply kit.
Include several days’ worth of water and canned foods along with a can opener, extra clothes and blankets, flashlights, and batteries in your kit. Include a battery-powered radio so you can stay informed as conditions change.
4. Tune in for instructions from local authorities.
If a power outage occurs due to a severe weather-related condition, opt for a battery-powered radio versus your TV to stay tuned. Turn off all lights and appliances on your property that were operating before the outage occurred. Select one light to keep on to help signal when the power returns. This will reduce any type of power surge from occurring once the electricity returns.
5. Use extreme caution when operating portable generators.
During power outages, some people may choose to use a portable generator to keep food from spoiling or appliances and life-supporting medical devices operating. Reminder: never use a portable generator (gasoline, diesel, or propane) indoors or in an enclosed area. Enclosed areas include basements, garages, sheds, or tents. This can result in carbon monoxide poisoning or death.
6. Never use outdoor propane appliances indoors or in enclosed areas.
This can result in carbon monoxide poisoning or death. These include such appliances as outdoor portable heaters, barbecue grills, and portable generators. Only use appliances in enclosed areas that are designed for indoor use. Never store, place, or use a propane cylinder indoors or in enclosed areas such as a basements, garages, sheds, or tents.
7. Use caution in the area surrounding your home or farm.
Check the entire area for downed power lines, damaged gas lines, or damage to your propane tank. High winds and severe weather can move, shift, or damage gas lines and tanks. If it is dark, use flashlights, not candles.
Immediately call your local utility company or propane retailer if any of these hazards exist. Do not attempt repairs yourself.
8. Inspect your propane appliances for water or other damage, if it is safe to do so.
A power outage can cause appliances such as a refrigerator or freezer to leak water. In some cases, a sump pump may stop working. This may cause propane appliances to get wet. Appliances with electric components exposed to water can create a fire hazard.
Never turn on a light switch, use any power source, or inspect your household appliances while standing in water. This can result in electrocution.
9. Contact a qualified service technician.
Suspect any of your propane appliances, equipment, or vehicles have been under water or damaged, or you have turned off your gas supply? Schedule a time for your local FS Propane Specialist to perform a complete inspection of your propane system.
Never use or operate appliances, equipment, or vehicles, or turn on the gas supply, until your system has been inspected by a qualified service technician. Do not attempt repairs yourself.
10. Exercise sound judgment.
As with any challenging situation, your composure during power outages and other severe weather events will ensure you don’t take unnecessary risks or pose any additional dangers to your family and home. Stay calm; use radios and telephones to stay informed and connected. If any questions arise, contact your propane retailer or local fire department.
Talk to your local FS Propane Specialist for additional information on preparing for power outages and severe weather conditions.