Safety Rules - "The Top 20"

1. Disconnecting Propane Lines

Disconnecting propane lines for the purpose of "bleeding" or purging air from them is potentially dangerous and must only be done by trained technicians.

2. Smell Gas
a) "I Think I Smell Gas."

It its natural state, propane is colourless and odourless. As a safety precaution, an odourant is added which gives propane a distinct, noticeable odour. It's a built-in safety signal.

Be alert for propane odour in areas where propane is used. Even a faint odour may indicate a potentially hazardous situation. If you suspect a propane leak, Follow These Procedures.

A "Scratch & Sniff" brochure available through your Sparling's Branch that will help you recognize the scent which is added to propane. This brochure is available to you at No Cost.

If you smell a similar odour, follow the instructions in the brochure and the "I Think I Smell Gas!" section below.

Sparling's recommends you have a home safety drill with all members of your family and an appropriate safety drill with people in your workplace.

b) "I Don't Smell Gas..."

Under some conditions, certain individuals may not readily identify a gas leak - so consumers may consider installing one or more propane gas detectors in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Read More.

3. Relighting Pilots

We strongly recommend that a Sparling's technician, or another qualified propane technician, light your appliance pilot lights. However, if you choose to light your own pilots, follow the manufacturer's instructions.

4. Properly Store Combustible Materials

Keep combustible materials, like gasoline, kerosene and cleaners, away from propane appliances - preferably outside.

5. Regular Maintenance

Have your propane system and appliances inspected periodically by a qualified propane technician. Read More.

6. Stay Out!

Stay out of areas where you suspect there may be a gas leak. If you are in such an area, leave immediately, call Sparling's - and stay out of the area until the problem is corrected.

7. Qualified Technicians

Permit only properly trained, qualified technicians service your appliances or propane system.

8. Repeated Pilot Outages

Pilot lights which repeatedly go out may indicate a hazardous condition. Contact your Sparling's Branch for Service.

9. Do Not Tamper

Do not tamper with, or use tools to operate, tank or appliance controls. If a control appears difficult to operate by hand, call a qualified propane technician immediately.

10. Proper Ventilation

Propane requires a large volume of air to burn properly. Proper ventilation is essential. Read More.

11. Follow Manufacturer's Instructions

To ensure safe installation, operation and maintenance of your appliances, always read and follow the manufacturer's instructions.

12. Store Propane Outside

Store all propane cylinders outdoors. Period.

13. Transport Propane Safely - Part 1

One of the many great advantages of propane is its portability. Remember to securely transport (and store) propane cylinders in an upright position.

14. Transport Propane Safely - Part 2

Avoid transporting propane cylinders in the passenger compartment of any vehicle - or without closing and securing the service valve.

15. Transport Propane Safely - Part 3

Never keep a propane cylinder inside a car or van, or in the trunk of a car. Heat may cause the pressure relief valve to open and release propane.

16. New Home Inspection

When you move into a new home, have a qualified propane technician inspect the entire propane system. At Sparling's, this inspection is called a Gas Appliance System Check, or GASCheck^®. Read More.

17. After a Snow Storm

For those in the path of winter storms, and who depend on propane to heat your homes, cook your meals and fuel your commercial equipment, the National Propane Gas Association (NPGA) recommends these safety tips to follow when removing snow from around propane tanks and equipment in your yard. Read More.

18. After a Flood

If your appliances have been flooded, have them inspected by a qualified propane technician before using again.

19. Approved Connections

Make sure only approved piping, valves and fittings are used in your piping system.

20. Common Sense
a) Inhalation

Intentional misuse by deliberately concentrating and inhaling propane can be harmful or fatal.

b) Vandalism

Common sense suggests to most of us that intentional misuse of propane equipment is potentially dangerous. Report all cases of vandalism to your Sparling's Branch.