Helpful Hints from Robinson Gas

Propane fuel is one of the safest and most reliable fuels available. At Robinson Gas, we want you to know how to use propane gas safely. We encourage everyone in your household to learn how to properly operate propane gas appliances and to become familiar with safety precautions. It also is important that you operate and maintain your gas equipment in accordance with the manufacturers' instructions.

Consumer Safety Information
Propane is a very safe fuel. But as with any energy source, there are steps you should take to further ensure your safety. IF YOU DETECT A GAS LEAK, immediately evacuate everyone from the house and call Robinson Gas at (256) 463-2221 or the fire department from a neighbor's telephone. For your safety, we recommend that you:

 • Learn what propane smells like.
 • Know where gas lines are located so you won't damage them when digging or working in the yard.
 • Change or clean furnace filters regularly as recommended by the manufacturer.
 • Don't store cleaning fluids, oil-soaked rags, gasoline, or other flammable liquids near a 
   gas-burning appliance where vapors could be ignited.

Storm Safety Tips
Before the Storm or Flood:
If you have to evacuate to higher ground, turn off the service valve on the propane portable cylinder or permanent tank and the shutoff valve on all propane appliances. Be sure to check first with us if you don't know where the shutoff valves are located. The permanent tank's service valve should be left off until the system and appliances have been checked by a qualified service person.

To secure propane equipment, tanks, and cylinders (including grill cylinders) during a severe flood or high-wind condition, tie them to strongly secured stationary objects. Grill cylinders should be taken outside and secured to a strong stationary object. Wire cable instead of rope is recommended.

After the Storm or Flood:
Robinson Gas should inspect propane-powered household appliances, farm equipment, or vehicles with controls or regulators that have been underwater before being put back into service. Since water damage to propane equipment and appliances is not always readily apparent, NPGA highly recommends a complete inspection of the entire system before attempting to operate equipment.

The number 1 problem created by flooding is water damage of regulators and controls. Such damage can cause blockage, corrosion, or other malfunction of the key safety devices that are built into the system. In addition, dirt or debris may have entered the regulator through the vent. While this is not an immediate threat, selected parts may need to be replaced to ensure the long-range safety of the equipment. Robinson Gas can also determine whether dents to the container or piping caused by flowing debris are serious enough to warrant equipment replacement.

If your propane equipment has been flooded, be sure to shut off the service valve at the propane tank if you didn't do so before evacuating the property. This can be done by turning the valve in a clockwise direction. Be sure to have the system and appliances checked prior to turning on the gas supply again.

In the rare cases when people smell gas upon returning to their home, business, or farm, they should extinguish all smoking materials and open flames. Exit the building immediately. Do not touch electrical switches, light matches, or use the phone. Turn off the gas valve on the outside tank, meter, or service area. Telephone the fire department and/or your propane supplier from a neighbor's phone. Do not re-enter until the building has been inspected.

Safe Grilling Tips:
 • Always follow grill manufacturer's instructions and keep written materials accessible.
 • When lighting a grill, make sure grill top is open.
 • Always use or store cylinders outdoors in an upright (vertical) position.
 • When the cylinder is refilled, have the supplier check for dents, damage, rust, or leaks.
 • Before connecting or lighting a propane gas grill, use a leak-detection solution to check connections 
   for tightness.
 • After filling or exchanging, take the cylinder home immediately. Keep the vehicle ventilated and the 
   cylinder valve closed and capped.
 • If there is an uncontrollable release of gas, call the fire department.
 • Do not allow children to tamper or play with the cylinder or grill.
 • Do not smoke while handling a propane cylinder.
 • When not in use, grill burner controls should be turned off and cylinder valve closed.
 • Do not use, store, or transport cylinders near high temperatures (this includes storing spare cylinders 
   near the grill).
 • When a grill is not in use, cover disconnected hose-end fittings with small, plastic bags, or protective 
   caps to keep clean.