Wildfires

Before

• Create an emergency preparedness plan and review it regularly with your family in order to keep them safe during a potential disaster.
  Make sure that you and your family know that propane smells like rotten eggs.
• Know how and where to shut off the outdoor propane supply and indoor propane appliances.
• For more information, contact your propane supplier.
• Regularly clear at least a 10-foot area around your propane tank and grill of anything that is combustible or easily ignited, including leaves, brush, any vegetation, and rags.
• Make sure the grill and propane cylinders are at least 10 feet from any structure.
• Never use, store or place a propane cylinder indoors or in an enclosed area including a basement, garage, shed, or tent.
• If you have propane appliances in your home, consider installing a carbon monoxide (CO) detector certified by an agency recognized in the province of use, such as the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) or Underwriters Laboratories of Canada (ULC). Follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding installation, location, and maintenance.
• Have an adequate supply of propane in your tank. During and after a wildfire, propane and other types of fuel may not be readily available and roads leading to your home might not be accessible for delivery.

During

Once a wildfire has started, drought or high winds can help it quickly gain strength and travel great distances in a short period of time. It can spread quickly and destroy or damage homes and property, including propane tanks and appliances. In addition to the intense heat and flames of a wildfire, fallen trees and power lines can present major problems for homeowners and emergency responders. Often, they block access routes for fire trucks and other emergency vehicles.

• Listen to your local authorities, or television and radio stations, for instructions on the appropriate course of action to take. Whether it is determined that you should stay or leave, you should shut off your propane.
• SHUT OFF THE PROPANE BEFORE YOU EVACUATE.
• Turn off the main supply valve on your propane tank, if it is safe to do so. To close the valve, turn it to the right (clockwise).
• Turn off the supply valves located near individual indoor appliances. If you have a propane fireplace or log set, close any screen, door, or damper.

After

Always use extreme caution when returning to your home. When you or the authorities have determined that it is safe to return, take the time to carefully evaluate the condition of all the structures on your property. If it is dark, use flashlights, not candles.

• Never under any circumstances try to repair or modify valves, regulators, or other appliance parts.
• Inspect chimneys, flue pipes and vent connectors for damage, blockage, or debris.
• Inspect your propane appliances for water or other damage.
• Look carefully around the entire area.
• Immediately call your propane supplier if any damage is observed.