SAFETY CODES IN EVERY STATE REQUIRE A “QUALIFIED PERSON” FOR CERTAIN TASKS.
A “qualified person” is experienced, familiar with required precautions, and complies with all requirements. Never try to install, modify, or repair your propane system or appliances. Improper installation or service of propane appliances or equipment can result in a gas leak, fire, explosion, and serious injury or death.
USE A QUALIFIED PROFESSIONAL:
For installations and service, such as:
• Any service or changes to the gas distribution system,
including tanks, cylinders, pipes, and their components.
• Installing, disconnecting, or relocating a propane appliance.
• Replacing, installing, or inspecting propane appliance connectors.
For scheduled maintenance in accordance with your appliance manufacturer’s instructions and schedule. For example, furnaces are often checked before each heating season begins.
If there is a problem, such as:
• Propane appliances or system not operating properly.
• Problems with your pilot lights.
• Soot buildup on equipment. (This may indicate gas is not burning completely.)
• Evidence of blocked vents (for example, from nests, snow, or ice) that you are unable to clear.
If you run out of gas or if the gas is shut off.
A qualified professional must check the propane system for leaks when turning the gas on. Never turn the gas on at the propane tank yourself. Be sure any pilot lights are properly relit as soon as the gas is turned back on.
PILOT LIGHTS
Lighting or troubleshooting pilot lights improperly can cause fire and explosion.
A QUALIFIED PROFESSIONAL CAN SAFELY LIGHT PILOT LIGHTS AND ADDRESS PROBLEMS.
If you choose to light your pilot lights:
• Follow the appliance manufacturer’s instructions.
• If you suspect a gas leak, do not attempt to light.
• If a pilot light is difficult to light or repeatedly goes out, NEVER try to fix or troubleshoot the problem yourself. Contact a qualified professional.
BE SURE YOUR APPLIANCES CAN “BREATHE” PROPERLY
• Appliances need air for proper combustion, and exhaust gases need to flow to the outdoors. Ventilation problems can result in high carbon monoxide levels in the home.
• Keep the area around your appliance clear.
• Check appliance vents for obstructions such as insect, bird, or small animal nests. In wintry weather, keep the area around vents clear of snow and ice.
• Never store anything that can burn (such as paper, clothing, gasoline, or solvents) near appliances.
KEEP FLAMMABLE GASES, VAPORS, AND
LIQUIDS AWAY FROM PROPANE APPLIANCES
Flammable gases and vapors from cleaning fluids, paint thinners, gasoline, and other flammable liquids can be ignited by propane appliances. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe use
and storage.
AVOID STRESSING APPLIANCE CONNECTORS
Appliance connectors can crack or break when flexed or twisted, such as when an appliance is moved. Use care near connectors, such as when cleaning. If you damage a connector, turn off the
gas and contact a qualified professional.
GAS CAN LEAK THROUGH AN OPEN GAS LINE
Plan ahead! If an appliance is going to be disconnected from a gas line, even if you will not be installing a new appliance, a qualified professional must cap or plug the open gas line.
WHAT IS CARBON MONOXIDE (CO)?
Carbon monoxide is a poisonous gas that is colorless, odorless, and tasteless. High levels can cause brain damage or death. Young children, the elderly, people with heart disease, and those under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication are particularly susceptible to carbon monoxide poisoning.
To Reduce the Risk of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning:
• Use carbon monoxide detectors. Install a UL-listed carbon monoxide detector on each level of your home. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Have appliances checked by a qualified professional in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and schedule.
• Keep chimneys and appliance air intake and exhaust vents clear. Regularly check to be sure that air can flow in for the gas to burn properly and exhaust gases can flow easily to the outdoors.
• Position and use vent-free appliances correctly,
in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Heat only with appliances intended for indoor heating.
• Never use a gas oven or range-top burners to provide heating.
• Never use portable heaters indoors, unless they are designed and approved for indoor use.
• Never use a barbecue grill (propane or charcoal) indoors for heating or cooking.
• Watch for signs that appliances might be operating improperly.
IF YOU SUSPECT CARBON MONOXIDE IS PRESENT
1. LEAVE IMMEDIATELY
Everyone should get out of the building and away
from where carbon monoxide is suspected.
2. CALL 911 OR THE FIRE DEPARTMENT
Once safely away, call 911 or the fire department
to report the presence of carbon monoxide.
3. STAY AWAY
Stay away from the suspected carbon monoxide
until an emergency responder or other qualified
To Reduce the Risk of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning:
• Use carbon monoxide detectors. Install a UL-listed carbon monoxide detector on each level of your home. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Have appliances checked by a qualified professional in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and schedule.
• Keep chimneys and appliance air intake and exhaust vents clear. Regularly check to be sure that air can flow in for the gas to burn properly and exhaust gases can flow easily to the outdoors.
• Position and use vent-free appliances correctly,
in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Heat only with appliances intended for indoor heating.
• Never use a gas oven or range-top burners to provide heating.
• Never use portable heaters indoors, unless they are designed and approved for indoor use.
• Never use a barbecue grill (propane or charcoal) indoors for heating or cooking.
• Watch for signs that appliances might be operating improperly.