Morning Mix

Actions

How to stay safe heating your home with propane this winter

Posted at 12:47 PM, Nov 18, 2016
and last updated 2016-11-18 12:47:56-05

Winter is quickly approaching, which means it's time to turn on the heat in your home.

One way to heat your home is through propane. Propane is a very similar to natural gas, except that propane is portable, so it's brought right to you via truck rather than through a pipeline.

Propane is also an extremely safe product to use and environmentally sound. If there's a leak in the tank, propane doesn't go into the ground, it disperses into the air.

Incidents with propane are very small and rarely happen, but it always pays to be prepared in case of an emergency. Crystal Flash has some tips on how to use propane efficiently and safely to keep you and the family nice and warm this winter:

  • Keep the driveway cleared out: As Michiganders know, winters can be pretty brutal. In order for the driver to be able to find your home and deliver propane to the house, make sure the driveway and mailbox are clear of snow.
  • Leave the tank area clear: Make sure there aren't any objects or snow blocking the propane tank. People often try to hide their propane tank with all these objects because the tank is considered an eyesore in the yard, but it's not safe for the delivery person. The way must be clear for your propane provider so they aren't climbing over and around objects to refill the tank.
  • Check the gauge: Keep an eye on your gauge because if it reads between 20 and 30 percent, it's time for a refill. Call your propane provider to refill the tank so you don't run out! Plus this ensures that your delivery driver will have enough time to get to your home and fill the tank before it runs out.
  • Be aware of your surroundings: If you wake up in the middle of the night and you think you smell gas in your home, leave the house immediately! Retreat to a safe distance away from the house and contact 911 and your propane provider.

To learn more about how Crystal Flash can help with your home heating needs, give them a call at 1-800-875-4851 or locally at (616) 363-4851.