EXTREME HEAT SAFETY

With extreme temperatures, your propane tank may be subjected to higher than normal operating pressures. Propane tanks are designed and constructed to very high standards and are installed to provincial codes and regulations to ensure safe and reliable operation.

To protect the tank from over pressure, the tank is equipped with a pressure relief valve (PRV). The PRV will relieve excess pressure that has built up in the tank keeping the tank at safe operating level. The PRV is designed to open and close as required to maintain a safe pressure in the tank.

If the tank has become hotter than normal due to high temperatures, the PRV may release propane vapour to the atmosphere.

Actions that can be taken to reduce the tank temperature are:

  • Apply water to the tank surface using a water hose or sprinkler, this will cool the tank and lower the pressure. Maintain a safe distance from the tank when applying water. A sprinkler is a good option for applying water (set the sprinkler and walk away).
  • Shade the tank.

PROTECT YOUR PROPANE EQUIPMENT

Use this checklist to ensure propane safety in the event of a wildfire or flood.
Download Propane Safety Checklist

Superior Propane Safety FAQs
 

  • If I smell propane, what should I do?
    Treat all propane gas odours seriously. Any odours may indicate a dangerous situation. If you think you smell propane in or around your home, immediately:

    ✓ Get everyone out of the building.
    ✓ Extinguish all smoking materials and open flames.
    ✓ Do not touch electrical switches, light matches or create any other source of ignition, including using electrical switches, flashlights, phones or cell phones.
    ✓ Locate all propane equipment and turn off the propane supply. Here's how:

    Meter: Give the valve a quarter turn in either direction so that the lever is crosswise to the pipe.
    Tank or cylinder: Turn the hand wheel clockwise (to the right) as far as possible.
    Propane appliance: Close the shut-off valve.

    Call the fire department or dial 911 from a neighbour’s or use your cell phone once everyone, including you, has safely left the property.

    Do not re-enter the area until it is safe.

    Call Superior Propane at 1-87SUPERIOR (1-877-873-7467) to schedule a service call to repair the leak once the area has been deemed safe. We will turn on the propane, check all the propane appliances and re-light the pilots on the appliances for you.

    If you have concerns about your ability to smell propane, you may want to consider purchasing propane and carbon monoxide detectors. These are a cost effective way to enhance safety and ensure any escaped gases are detected. However, while detectors may provide an extra measure of warning, they should never be relied upon as a substitute for regular inspection and maintenance of propane appliances.
  • If propane is colourless and odourless, how do I tell if it’s in the air?
    To make it easier to detect a leak, propane has an odour additive (ethyl mercaptan), which smells like rotten eggs or boiling cabbage. Propane is heavier than air, so when checking for leaks, be aware that it gathers in low-lying areas.
  • Can I shut off my propane supply in an emergency?
    Yes. If it’s necessary to turn off your propane supply before Superior Propane or the fire department arrives, you should know the proper procedure.

    Meter: Give the valve at the meter a quarter turn in either direction so that the lever is crosswise to the pipe to turn it off.
    Tank or cylinder: Turn the hand wheel clockwise (to the right) as far as possible to make sure the valve is completely closed.
    Propane appliance: Close the shut-off valve.

    If you are not sure how to shut off the gas supply from your meter, tank or cylinder, contact Superior Propane for instructions. A Service Technician or Driver can show you how to turn the propane supply off at your next scheduled delivery or service inspection.
  • Can I turn the meter on again?
    No. Please leave this to an expert. Once the propane is shut off, a qualified Superior Propane Service Representative will check out the appliances and venting and turn it back on for you.
  • Can I turn the tank or cylinder on again?
    No. Please do not turn the tank or cylinder back on. Leave it to our qualified Service Representatives to check out your propane system to ensure it’s safe.
  • What safety tips do I need to know if I’m served by a propane meter or tank?
    ✓ Know the location of your propane meter and/or tank.
    ✓ Keep your tank and meter clear for emergency responses.
    ✓ Know how to shut off your propane supply.
    ✓ Keep a wrench in a convenient location if you have a meter.
    ✓ Do not enclose your meter or tank.
    ✓ Do not tie pets or other objects to the meter or any outside propane pipes.
     
  • Do I ever need to repaint my tank?
    Yes. Rusty, unpainted or dark-coloured tanks do not reflect sunlight and may absorb heat causing an increase in pressure, leading to a possible discharge from the pressure release valve.  Please contact Superior Propane prior to repainting your tank.
  • Is there anything I should do before doing major landscaping projects?
    Yes – call before you dig. If underground pipes bring propane to your house, be sure to call Superior Propane when making an addition to your home, doing major landscaping or installing fence posts.
  • Is there anything I need to do in the wintertime to prepare for my delivery?
    Keep the path to your propane tank or cylinders clear of snow and ice to ensure Superior drivers can safely refill your equipment. Also:

    ✓ Ensure snow isn’t piled, plowed or blown on your tank or cylinders, gas lines, regulators or appliance vents.
    ✓ Use soft tools such as brooms or brushes to ensure no damage to the equipment and components.
    ✓ Visit our winter delivery tips page for more ways to prepare for your deliveries.