Propane Safety

Know the Smell of Propane Gas

All propane has an added odorant to aid in detection. The odor smells like rotten eggs, a skunk’s spray, or a dead animal. If you think you smell propane gas in your home or around your property, follow the steps below right away.

If You Smell Propane in Your Home

  1. Extinguish flames and sparks. Put out all smoking materials and other open flames. Avoid using anything that can create a spark or an electrical charge such as lights, appliances, telephones, or cell phones that can ignite an explosion or fire.

  2. Leave the area. Get everyone out of the building or area where you suspect gas is leaking.

  3. Shut off the gas. If it is safe to do so, turn off the main gas supply valve on your propane tank. To close the valve, turn it to the right (clockwise). If you have more than one tank, turn them all off.

  4. Report the leak. Call your propane supplier right away—from a neighbor’s home or nearby building—and if you can’t reach them, call 911 or your local fire department.

  5. Do not return to the building or area. Wait until your propane supplier, an emergency responder, or a qualified service technician determines that it is safe to do so.

  6. Get your system checked. Have your propane supplier or qualified service technician check your entire system before attempting to use any of your propane appliances..