Secure your propane tank in icy weather

This week, temperatures will be warming up and then dropping again – which means snow will be melting and then freezing again, forming ice all around our homes and businesses.

The New York Propane Gas Association (NYPGA) offers these safety tips:

Clear snow and ice from around your propane tank, chimneys, flue pipes and vents. Use a broom rather than a shovel, and clear these areas frequently to reduce the possibility of carbon monoxide poisoning. If pipes freeze and crack, gas can leak out and cause potential danger.

Check your propane tank, chimneys, flue pipes and vents for damage, blockage, or debris caused by snow and ice. Do not attempt repairs yourself. Call your propane dealer for assistance.

Mark the location of your tank with a flag, pole, or stake. The marker should be higher than the average snow cover depth in your area. Markers will help you to avoid plowing or shoveling rooftop snow on top of your tank. In the event that your tank becomes covered with snow, use a broom to clear it.

Alert snow plow contractors. Make sure the company hired to perform snow removal be advised of the presence and location of both above ground and underground tanks. Accidental contact of snow removal equipment with tanks could cause a serious safety hazard

Make sure you have an adequate propane supply. In the event of a winter storm, roads may be inaccessible for delivery. It is recommended that you establish an automatic refill delivery schedule with your propane retailer. Your dealer will be able to explain your options in one simple phone call.

The New York Propane Gas Association also offers an interactive online safety module at www.propanesafety.com/winterstorm-preparedness for business and homeowners to stay safe when preparing for or recovering from winter weather.

Propane users can find more safety tips online www.nypropane.com and www.propanesafety.com.