Cylinder Safety Tips

NW Ohio Propane is a safe and reliable energy source when handled properly. By following a few simple precautions, you can enjoy the benefits of propane while keeping your home, business, and loved ones protected.

Everyone knows that safety is important. NW Ohio Propane employees have each received specialized training and certifications in order to safely handle propane when providing services to our customers.

But when we are not there, we want you to know what to do to protect your family or employees from any dangers!

Storing your extra propane cylinders in a shed can be dangerous.

Propane is highly flammable and can cause a fire when exposed to sunlight, heat, or ignition sources.

Propane is also heavier than air allowing it to build up quickly in enclosed spaces.

Even if your shed is partially walled, the gas could ignite or explode when the outdoor temperature rises.

While these incidents are rare, you shouldn’t take any unnecessary risks!

Thinking about buying a new propane cylinder or refilling an existing one?

When transporting your propane cylinder, please keep these safety tips in mind…

- Keep the tank upright and secured. Rolling or bouncing could cause a dent or puncture.

- Make sure the cylinder valve is closed before transportation.

- Provide ventilation for the cylinder if enclosed in your vehicle by cracking a window.

- Don't leave your cylinder in your vehicle. Unload it as soon as you arrive at your destination. Heat from the sun makes things expand, which in the case of propane, could explode.

- Use your nose. Propane gas is odorless, but it contains an additive so you can detect a leak. If you smell rotten eggs, pull over and remove the tank.

Please drive safely. These tips take no extra time, but simply require awareness. 😊

Where should you store your propane cylinders?

Choose a cool, well-ventilated area where the temperature doesn’t exceed 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Store your cylinder upright on a flat service at least 10 feet from any flammable materials. Consider getting a propane cabinet or cage!

These storage solutions have safety features that will come in handy such as the ability to lock. This will prevent children from opening a valve or knocking a cylinder over while playing outdoors.

Some options may look like the following:

Simply put, do not store your cylinders indoors no matter how well-ventilated the area is. It is safe to keep it outdoors in the winter as long as the temperature doesn’t go below -40 degrees Fahrenheit.