Practice Propane Safety During Thunderstorm Season

Written on: September 6, 2021

Keep Your Loved Ones and Your Property Safe and Secure When Severe Weather Strikes.

Though they may seem to come out of nowhere, thunderstorms are a fairly predictable fact of life, especially in late summer and early fall. So, while propane is one of the safest forms of energy homeowners in the Upper Midwest can choose, it’s still necessary to take proper precautions with it (and any energy source) should severe weather strike. Follow these eight rules to keep you and your loved ones safe!

Thunderstorm Season Propane Safety Guide

1. Have an emergency plan in place. The Red Cross advises that you choose a secure location in your home where everyone can assemble during severe weather conditions. Discuss safety measures with all members of your household and gather emergency supplies (such as drinking water, flashlights, a radio, and batteries) in advance. For more help, visit ready.gov/plan at the Department of Homeland Security.
2. Check detectors twice a year. Both propane gas and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors are crucial propane safety devices that can protect you in the event of a propane leak or equipment malfunction. Follow manufacturer instructions regarding detector installation, location, and maintenance, and test that they are in good working order at least twice a year.
3. Review shutoff procedures. Know where and how to shut off your electricity, water, outdoor propane valve and indoor propane appliances. Contact us and/or other appropriate utility providers for instructions if you’re unsure how to do this.
4. Check that your propane tank is securely anchored. An above ground propane tank must be anchored with cables to a solid (preferably concrete) base.
5. Know the signs of a leak. Everyone in your household should be able to recognize and identify the “rotten egg” smell that could indicate a propane leak—and what to do if it is detected.
6. Stay inside and informed. If you hear thunder and/or see lightning while outdoors, find shelter immediately. If you cannot get indoors, stay in an open place clear of trees and electricity-conducting metal, including propane tanks and equipment, vehicles and telephone lines. Listen to news and weather reports online and in local media so you’ll know when the coast is clear.
7. Inspect with caution. After a severe weather incident, put safety first when inspecting the equipment in and around your home. Never use a candle when checking your equipment and never stand in water when inspecting home appliances. Steer clear of downed lines and wires and be sure to report these to your local utility.
8. Never attempt DIY propane repairs. A propane tank that has become dislodged from its service line could be leaking gas. Storm-related debris and water can also cause safety issues with your equipment’s regulators and controls. If you suspect any damage to your propane equipment, do not approach it or attempt repairs yourself under any circumstances. Call 911 and contact Lakes Gas immediately. Lakes Gas has 48 fully staffed locations in the Upper Midwest, and our skilled technicians will be out on the double to get you up and running safely after a storm.

Lakes Gas cares about your safety.Check out our Consumer Safety Series to watch helpful videos about detecting a gas leak, turning off your equipment and much more.