Propane Safety: Spring Yard Work

Spring is right around the corner, which means it’s almost time to get your property cleaned up from the long winter season. Tree limbs have fallen down from the weight of snow and ice, grass will be needing to be mowed again, and weeds will start growing in no time. With all the yard maintenance happening this time of year, it’s important to know the precautions you should take when working around your propane system.

Keep a safe distance from equipment

While you’re mowing your lawn, trimming weeds, picking up debris, or doing any other yard work, it’s important to keep a safe distance from your propane tank so you don’t cause any damage or disrupt the lines to the tank. A good rule of thumb would be to keep your lawn mower at least three feet away from your tank and supply line to avoid damaging the system and prevent potential danger. To cut through grass or weeds closer to your tank, you should use a weed trimmer while still being cautious to not come into contact with your tank or disrupt the propane lines.

Clear away any brush and debris

Keeping the area around your propane equipment clear of debris is important for the safety and upkeep of your equipment, as well as the safety of your propane delivery drivers. Make sure to trim any branches that might be hanging over your propane tank, remove any debris or pests (i.e. birds nests or wasps nests) that might be making your tank hard to access, and ensure the path to your tank remains clear for your delivery drivers.

Keep open flames away from propane system

Cleaning up your yard, especially for the first time of the season, usually results in a lot of excess debris to get rid of. Many people turn to burning sticks and brush they clear from their yard as an easy and effective clean-up method. If you do this, remember to keep all fire pits, burn piles, or any open flames a safe distance from your propane tank and supply lines to avoid a hazardous situation.

What do you do if you disrupt the lines to your tank

If you have disrupted the lines to your tank while doing yard work, or notice that something is wrong or not functioning properly with your system, you should turn your tank off immediately and call your propane supplier.

To turn your tank off, follow these steps:

• Open the lid of your tank to reveal the shut-off valve.
• Turn the shut-off valve to the right, or clockwise, to stop the flow of propane.
• If you have more than one tank, turn them all off the same way.
• Never turn the gas back on yourself! Call your propane supplier and wait for their assistance.

For questions or assistance with your propane equipment or supply, call Premier at 877-435-3230.