Propane Tank Safety Archives

A Guide to Storing and Disposing of Propane Tanks

Due to their flammable and volatile properties, propane tanks require careful handling. Here’s a practical guide on how to safely and effectively manage the storage and disposal of these tanks. Safe Storage of Propane Tanks Location Store propane tanks outdoors, away from living spaces if possible. Choose a flat, non-flammable surface like concrete, away from… Continue reading A Guide to Storing and Disposing of Propane Tanks

Due to their flammable and volatile properties, propane tanks require careful handling. Here’s a practical guide on how to safely and effectively manage the storage and disposal of these tanks.

Safe Storage of Propane Tanks

Location
Store propane tanks outdoors, away from living spaces if possible. Choose a
flat, non-flammable surface like concrete, away from potential ignition sources.

Positioning
Always store propane tanks upright to keep the pressure relief valve functional. This valve releases propane if the pressure inside the tank becomes too high, preventing potential accidents.

Coverage
Protect tanks from extreme temperatures and direct sunlight. Use a tank cover to shield them from environmental elements, but be sure to check that it doesn’t trap any moisture.

Accessibility
Keep tanks in a location that allows easy access for monitoring and usage but ensures they are secure from unauthorized handling.

Proper Disposal of Propane Tanks

Emptying the Tank
Never dispose of a propane tank with propane still inside. Use up the propane completely, or have it professionally removed.

Service Check
Contact local propane suppliers for disposal recommendations and protocols. Some offer take-back programs.

Recycling Options
Small, single-use propane cylinders can sometimes be recycled. Check with local waste management services for guidelines on recycling larger propane tanks.

Hazardous Waste Programs
Look for community hazardous waste disposal programs that accept propane tanks. These programs ensure that tanks are handled safely and according to environmental regulations.

Impact on Propane Businesses
For propane businesses, effectively managing tank storage and disposal enhances operational safety and customer trust. Offering guidance on proper storage and disposal can serve to distinguish and differentiate a business in a competitive market. It underscores a commitment to safety and environmental responsibility, appealing to safety-conscious consumers.

Moreover, businesses can foster customer loyalty and community goodwill by participating in or hosting tank recycling and hazardous waste programs. These initiatives not only contribute to environmental protection but also position the company as a responsible and integral part of the community.

Overall, good practices in propane tank storage and disposal not only help a company comply with local regulations but also enhance the service value offered to customers, helping to promote their long-term safety and satisfaction.

How to Safely Handle Propane Tanks

Handling propane tanks safely is critical for preventing accidents and ensuring everyone’s safety. Here are some essential guidelines to follow in order to ensure that this is done: Inspect Regularly Before using a propane tank, inspect it for any signs of damage, rust, or leaks. Check the valve and connections to ensure everything is secure… Continue reading How to Safely Handle Propane Tanks

Handling propane tanks safely is critical for preventing accidents and ensuring everyone’s safety. Here are some essential guidelines to follow in order to ensure that this is done:

Inspect Regularly
Before using a propane tank, inspect it for any signs of damage, rust, or leaks. Check the valve and connections to ensure everything is secure and in good condition.

Store Properly
Always store propane tanks upright in a well-ventilated area. Keep them away from heat sources, open flames, and direct sunlight. This prevents pressure build-up and reduces the risk of fire.

Transport Safely
When transporting a propane tank, secure it in a stable and upright position. Never keep a tank inside a closed vehicle for long periods of time. Ensure that the valve is tightly closed, and use a tank holder if possible.

Handle with Care
When connecting or disconnecting a propane tank, ensure the valve is closed. Use a proper wrench to avoid damaging the connections. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for handling and usage.

Know Emergency Procedures
Familiarize yourself with emergency procedures in case of a leak or fire. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby and know how to shut off the propane supply quickly.

Prioritize Safety
Establish a culture of safety within your business. Provide safety training for all employees in the proper handling of propane tanks where the above guidelines, and the vital details pertaining to them, are communicated both verbally and in writing. This will ensure that your entire team is educated on this important component of propane service, thus preventing accidents and creating a safer environment for customers and employees alike.

Charlotte, North Carolina: Propane Tank Explosion Destroys Car and Home, Owner Survives

In a harrowing incident in Charlotte, North Carolina, a yellow Dodge Charger owner miraculously survived a catastrophic blast that obliterated her car and inflicted severe damage to her residence earlier this week. The dramatic explosion rocked the quiet neighborhood approximately 30 seconds after the car’s owner entered her Dodge Charger around 1:30 p.m. on Monday,… Continue reading Charlotte, North Carolina: Propane Tank Explosion Destroys Car and Home, Owner Survives

The dramatic explosion rocked the quiet neighborhood approximately 30 seconds after the car’s owner entered her Dodge Charger around 1:30 p.m. on Monday, September 25. Moments later, as she lit a cigarette, an unfortunate oversight became apparent – a propane tank was stored in the back seat.

Security camera footage from a neighbor’s house captured the terrifying moment when a massive blast tore through the Dodge, shattering windows and sending fragments hurtling through the air.

The ordeal did not end with the explosion itself. Shortly afterward, the Dodge became engulfed in flames, rapidly spreading to the owner’s house. The ensuing fire consumed the garage and most of the living quarters, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake.

This incident is a stark reminder of the importance of safety precautions where propane tanks are concerned. Smoking should never occur near a propane tank.

Quick-Thinking Propane Truck Driver Prevents Potential Disaster in Salem Fire

In a commendable display of quick thinking and courage, the driver of a propane truck averted a potentially catastrophic situation when the vehicle caught fire in Salem. Local firefighters are lauding the driver’s actions for preventing a disaster. The alarm was raised when Centre Wellington Fire Services received a distress call regarding a propane truck… Continue reading Quick-Thinking Propane Truck Driver Prevents Potential Disaster in Salem Fire

The alarm was raised when Centre Wellington Fire Services received a distress call regarding a propane truck fire just before 5 p.m. on Thursday, September 14.

Firefighters from the Elora station rushed to the scene, bracing themselves for a potentially chaotic situation. However, upon arrival, they were surprised to find that the truck driver had taken swift action, using a portable fire extinguisher to combat the flames. Deputy Chief Jonathan Karn explained, “He was able to extinguish some of it.”

Thanks to the driver’s immediate response, the fire department could intervene and completely extinguish the fire before it reached the propane tank, averting a potentially catastrophic outcome.

Deputy Chief Karn remarked, “It certainly sounded like it would be much more (fire) when dispatched. I think the driver’s actions held the fire back.”

The fire was located in the rear axle tire area of the truck, and preliminary investigations suggest that a mechanical issue was likely the cause. Karn mentioned, “It could be overheated brakes. We don’t know for sure.”

It’s important to note that the truck was fully loaded with propane and had the fire reached the tank, it could have posed significant dangers. Karn emphasized, “We would have had to evacuate the area. We were all very fortunate.”

To ensure safety and manage the situation, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) temporarily closed the intersection of Wellington Roads 7 and 18 for approximately an hour. This allowed the fire department to clear the scene and arrange for the safe removal of the truck.

This incident serves as a reminder of the critical role of quick thinking and prompt action in preventing disasters. The heroic efforts of the propane truck driver, combined with the coordinated response of local firefighters and law enforcement, effectively averted a potentially catastrophic event in Salem.

Ensuring Propane Safety: Dispelling Misconceptions and Promoting Accurate Information

Article Source: WSMV4 (https://www.wsmv.com/2023/09/01/how-check-propane-tanks-prevent-an-explosion/) As Reported in the NASHVILLE, Tenn. NBC affiliate WSMV4 – Propane, a highly flammable and explosive gas, demands responsible handling to prevent accidents. Recent incidents, such as the destruction of a Williamson County, Tennessee, home due to a propane leak, have emphasized the importance of understanding propane safety. However, it’s important… Continue reading Ensuring Propane Safety: Dispelling Misconceptions and Promoting Accurate Information

Article Source: WSMV4 (https://www.wsmv.com/2023/09/01/how-check-propane-tanks-prevent-an-explosion/)

As Reported in the NASHVILLE, Tenn. NBC affiliate WSMV4 – Propane, a highly flammable and explosive gas, demands responsible handling to prevent accidents. Recent incidents, such as the destruction of a Williamson County, Tennessee, home due to a propane leak, have emphasized the importance of understanding propane safety. However, it’s important to ensure that the information we rely on is accurate and reliable.

Vanessa Morrison, from Guthrie’s ACE Hardware, recently shared some tips on propane tank safety, but as we acknowledge this, it is our duty to address some inaccuracies in the original article. In the propane industry, we always aim to provide correct information while emphasizing the need for industry-wide collaboration to promote propane safety.

Morrison mentioned that bad fittings and valves are common issues with propane tanks and that refilling a tank around a dozen times could pose an explosion risk. However, Propane Industry experts point out that this information is misleading. Propane tanks do not inherently become prone to failure after a set number of refills. Rather, their condition depends on various factors, including proper maintenance and inspection.

Additionally, the article suggested consulting the label on a propane tank to prevent overfilling. Experts clarify that there is no specific requirement for a label on 20 lbs. propane cylinders to address overfilling, rendering this guidance inaccurate. It’s important to rely on trusted sources and manufacturer guidelines when handling propane.

The article also mentioned the use of chemical-resistant gloves when handling propane, even for simple tasks like turning the valve on and off during grilling. Propane experts highlight that this practice is not advised by any manufacturer or safety professional. While safety precautions are crucial, it’s equally important to rely on accurate recommendations.

The propane industry is committed to promoting safety, but it’s essential that information provided to the public is accurate and reliable. Safety education should be based on industry standards and expert knowledge to ensure the well-being of consumers.

So while the original article sought to educate the public on propane safety, it inadvertently contained some misinformation. Propane expert comments serve as a reminder that we must be diligent in verifying the accuracy of information related to propane handling and safety. As an industry, we should work together to ensure that our customers receive the correct and reliable information they need to stay safe when dealing with propane.

Watch the original interview here… (https://www.wsmv.com/2023/09/01/how-check-propane-tanks-prevent-an-explosion/)

Leyden Propane Tank Leak Triggers Quick Emergency Response

Leyden, Mass – A propane-related incident in Leyden drew quick and decisive action from local authorities and emergency responders. Late Thursday night, September 7, the tranquility of Bell Road was interrupted by a significant odor caused by a propane tank leak. Prompt Response to a Potentially Hazardous Situation At approximately 10:36 PM, emergency crews were… Continue reading Leyden Propane Tank Leak Triggers Quick Emergency Response

Prompt Response to a Potentially Hazardous Situation

At approximately 10:36 PM, emergency crews were summoned to assist Leyden Fire and Bernardston Police in addressing a propane leak. The situation involved a 250-pound propane tank with a severed line, posing potential risks.

Ensuring Safety through Evacuation and Expertise

In the interest of public safety, local law enforcement swiftly evacuated residents from the affected home on Bell Road. To mitigate the situation effectively, Osterman Propane, experts in propane handling, were called in to assist. Their aid was instrumental in successfully shutting off the compromised tank.

A Timely and Collaborative Effort

This incident is a testament to the importance of timely emergency responses and collaborative efforts among emergency services and industry professionals. In cases involving hazardous materials such as propane, a coordinated approach is essential to ensure the safety of both residents and first responders.

Safety remains paramount in handling propane-related incidents, and this event underscores the importance of vigilance and preparedness. Regular inspections and maintenance of propane systems are key to preventing such occurrences. For an innovative app that is custom designed to help with propane safety issues, be sure to check out PropaneSafetyPro.com.

Propane Tank Ownership Laws: Protecting Your Investment

Many states have strict laws prohibiting propane companies from filling leased tanks owned by others. However, violations of these laws occur occasionally, with propane companies filling and billing leased tanks in defiance of state regulations. These laws serve multiple purposes. First, they enable the propane company that owns the tank to recover the costs associated… Continue reading Propane Tank Ownership Laws: Protecting Your Investment

These laws serve multiple purposes. First, they enable the propane company that owns the tank to recover the costs associated with their property, including the tank, regulators, and gas lines. Secondly, they enhance safety by ensuring that the company owning the gas system has likely conducted necessary safety inspections and leak checks.

Retailers often discover other propane companies filling their leased tanks under various circumstances. Sometimes, these tanks are located in rental properties, and the new renters, unaware of the law, seek the cheapest or closest propane supplier. In such cases, the retailer may not even know the tank is leased, assuming it’s customer-owned due to a lack of clear ownership identification.

Resolving this problem can be challenging. We recommend contacting the appropriate state agency with jurisdiction over propane companies or the authority having jurisdiction (AHJ). Evidence of tank ownership includes lease details, serial numbers, tank specifications, and records of deliveries and consumption. If you can also demonstrate that someone else is filling the tank through appliance records and degree-day calculations, the AHJ can investigate and take necessary actions.

Simultaneously, educate your customer about the law and why it exists, requesting their compliance in obtaining propane deliveries exclusively from your company.

Legal action may be necessary if contacting the propane company responsible for the violations doesn’t yield results. This could involve obtaining a temporary restraining order from a local court to prevent competitors from filling your tanks. If violations persist, seek a permanent injunction, sanctions, and damages for lost revenues.

Consider removing your tank from uncooperative customers’ properties if needed, but ensure you have proper consent and documentation to avoid legal complications. Be cautious and, if necessary, initiate a replevin action to facilitate tank removal while complying with the terms of your lease.

Explosive Propane Incident Leaves Four Injured in West Farmington, Ohio

Propane Incident – Four individuals sustained injuries as a result of an explosion caused by a propane tank leak in a mobile trailer situated along Clark Road in West Farmington, Ohio. The incident occurred late in the afternoon on Friday, August 11. One of the injured individuals was airlifted to a burn unit for treatment.… Continue reading Explosive Propane Incident Leaves Four Injured in West Farmington, Ohio

The trailer’s proprietor, in preparation for an upcoming wedding scheduled for the following Tuesday, was collaborating with three other men inside the trailer, as shared by James Loza, the Chief of the Mesopotamia Fire Department. Within the trailer’s confines were a total of four propane stoves and five propane tanks, with one of these tanks being identified as the source of the leak.

Tragedy struck when the group decided to open the rear door of the trailer, resulting in a powerful explosion that devastated the trailer itself. Adjacent to the site, another mobile trailer suffered structural harm due to the force of the blast. Additionally, a recreational building situated nearby also sustained damage to both its roof and siding as a consequence of the explosion.

The proprietor of the trailer was transported via air ambulance to a specialized burn unit at Akron Children’s Hospital. Meanwhile, the other two injured men were taken to hospitals within Trumbull County, while the fourth individual received transportation to a hospital located in Geauga County. Thankfully, Chief Loza confirmed that all of them are expected to recover from their injuries.

In response to the incident, a total of eight fire departments were dispatched to the scene. This included five departments from Trumbull County and an additional three from neighboring Geauga County, as Chief Loza reported. The state fire marshal was slated to initiate an investigation into the incident on the forthcoming Monday. In the meantime, firefighters have captured photographic evidence of the scene in order to aid in the investigation process.

Fargo, ND Gunman’s 2022 Police Interview: Guns, Ammo, and Propane Tanks Discussed

The individual responsible for the fatal shooting of a Fargo, ND police officer and the injury of two other officers and a civilian last month had acknowledged possessing nearly a dozen firearms and thousands of rounds of ammunition during a police interview conducted in 2022. This interview followed a residential kitchen fire at the assailant’s… Continue reading Fargo, ND Gunman’s 2022 Police Interview: Guns, Ammo, and Propane Tanks Discussed

The individual responsible for the fatal shooting of a Fargo, ND police officer and the injury of two other officers and a civilian last month had acknowledged possessing nearly a dozen firearms and thousands of rounds of ammunition during a police interview conducted in 2022. This interview followed a residential kitchen fire at the assailant’s residence, which prompted firefighters to alert the police about the presence of firearms, ammunition, and propane tanks in the apartment of Mohamad Barakat.

According to an official report shared with the Associated Press by the Fargo Fire Department, Battalion Chief Jason Ness documented his observations during the September 6, 2022 fire incident. Ness noted the discovery of a substantial quantity of ammunition, multiple “assault-style” rifles, a 20-pound propane cylinder situated in a bedroom, a smaller propane cylinder in the kitchen, and various items seemingly intended for measurement purposes.

While the Fargo Police Department (FPD) confirmed the legality of Barakat’s gun collection, Ness made the decision to involve the police due to the presence of guns, high-capacity magazines, and propane tanks without any apparent cooking or grilling purpose. In his admission during the interview, Barakat revealed ownership of around 10 guns and approximately 6,000 rounds of ammunition.

Katie Ettish, a spokesperson for the city of Fargo, affirmed that the police officers who responded to the fire call had observed several firearms within Barakat’s apartment, all of which were legal and not subject to any prohibitions. Barakat’s ownership or acquisition of guns was within the bounds of the law.

Although Fargo Police Chief David Zibolski stated that there had been prior interactions with Barakat, he emphasized that these encounters had not raised any significant concerns.

The tragic incident unfolded on July 14, 2023 when 37-year-old Barakat shot and killed Fargo Police Officer Jake Wallin, while also injuring officers Andrew Dotas and Tyler Hawes, as well as a bystander, during their response to a routine traffic crash. The situation was contained by Officer Zach Robinson, who fatally shot Barakat, preventing a potentially more extensive attack considering ongoing summer festivities in the vicinity.

In the aftermath of the shooting, a search of Barakat’s vehicle revealed an array of weapons, including guns, a homemade grenade, over 1,800 rounds of ammunition, containers filled with gasoline, and two propane tanks. The tanks contained homemade explosive materials. Notably, Barakat’s online activity over the past five years raised concerns, with searches related to “kill fast,” “explosive ammo,” “incendiary rounds,” and “mass shooting events.” One search inquired about “area events where there are crowds,” which led to a news article titled, “Thousands Enjoy the First Day of Downtown Fargo Street Fair,” just a day before the shooting.

This wasn’t the first instance where authorities engaged Barakat regarding his firearms. In July 2021, the FBI received an anonymous tip expressing worries about Barakat’s mental state, his access to a substantial number of firearms, and his use of threatening language. Fargo police detectives visited Barakat, who denied any malicious intent. Given the absence of illegal activities or immediate threats, no further actions were taken at that time. The FBI’s ongoing investigation continues to delve into the circumstances surrounding last month’s shooting.

According to North Dakota Attorney General, Drew Wrigley, it seems that Barakat had lawfully acquired his firearms. Barakat, a Syrian national who arrived in the U.S. on an asylum request in 2012, attained U.S. citizenship in 2019.

Propane Fire Incident at Sugar Ridge RV Village & Campground in Danville, Vermont

On June 26, 2023, a propane gas venting from a broken line caused a sizable fire column at Sugar Ridge RV Village & Campground in Danville, Vermont. The incident occurred when a Chevrolet truck driven by one of the campers accidentally struck the fill pipe of the campground’s 500-gallon underground propane tank, causing the line… Continue reading Propane Fire Incident at Sugar Ridge RV Village & Campground in Danville, Vermont

On June 26, 2023, a propane gas venting from a broken line caused a sizable fire column at Sugar Ridge RV Village & Campground in Danville, Vermont.

The incident occurred when a Chevrolet truck driven by one of the campers accidentally struck the fill pipe of the campground’s 500-gallon underground propane tank, causing the line to break. Within minutes, the leaked propane ignited, leading to the column of fire.

Multiple firefighting departments quickly responded to the scene. They directed water hoses toward the truck and a nearby bathhouse to prevent the flames from spreading. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, although the car suffered considerable front-end damage.

As a precautionary measure, campers in the bathhouse area at Peone Path and Stella Dora Drive were instructed to move to a safe distance. At the same time, firefighters contained the fire and allowed the propane to burn itself out. It took some time to extinguish the fire fully. Mary Fenoff, co-owner of the campground, mentioned that the propane tank had recently been filled.

Fenoff spoke with the camper who accidentally struck the pipe and confirmed that the individual was unharmed, albeit frightened by the incident. She expressed gratitude that no injuries occurred and emphasized the campground’s commitment to safety.

Sugar Ridge RV Village & Campground, with 150 occupied sites at the time, has operated for 25 years. The prompt response from firefighting departments, including Danville, Peacham, Concord, Lyndonville, and Walden, along with the assistance of Peacham Rescue in providing medical care, helped mitigate the situation effectively.

If propane companies or campgrounds require safety training or consulting related to the proper handling of propane, they can contact Propane Safety Pro at propanesafetypro.com. Ensuring proper safety measures and protocols is crucial to prevent such incidents and protect individuals and property in similar situations.