Many homes use propane gas to operate fireplaces, grills, water heaters, furnaces, and kitchen appliances. The thought of your tank leaking can be scary, especially when you have little ones in your home. As a parent, it's natural to worry about the well-being of your children, so it’s never too early to teach them some safety tips about propane. Use the following guide to ensure they understand this fuel source and know what to do if there's a leak.

How to Use Propane Safely in Your Family Home

1. Tour the House

Take your kids around the home and point out which household appliances operate using propane. You should also urge them to never use gas-powered devices, like the stove, without parental supervision. Explain how the open flames of gas stoves and fireplaces can be hazardous and how using them could cause a fire or lead to injuries. Show them the location of the main tank and where the gas line enters the home, as well. Consider keeping a list of propane-powered appliances on the refrigerator or in another easily noticeable place so they can reference it when necessary.

2. Teach Kids What Propane Smells Like

When you have a maintenance or tank replacement appointment, ask the supplier to bring some scratch-and-sniff brochures so you can teach your kids what propane gas smells like. If you aren’t due for a refill, describe the scent to them. The smell of propane is often compared to rotten eggs or skunk spray.

3. Create a Safety Plan

There are some situations where a propane gas leak is unavoidable, so you need to make sure you have a game plan in place in case of emergencies. Urge them to tell an adult if they think they smell a leak.

Establish a meeting spot outside the home and off the property where the family can gather if something is wrong. If you're close with a particular neighbor, consider picking their yard. Children will feel safe knowing they can trust them if they have to get out of the house when you're not home. They can use a cellphone or neighbor's phone to call 911, and you should also try to contact your propane gas supplier to let them know about the problem. Make sure everyone knows not to go back inside the house until an expert or emergency personnel gives the all-clear.

Whether you need a new propane gas tank or if you have concerns with your current one, reach out to Dousman LP Gas. This family-owned and -operated company has been serving clients throughout Dousman, WI, and Waukesha County for over 37 years. These heating contractors are dedicated to providing excellent customer service. Call (262) 965-2679 to schedule propane delivery, or visit the website to learn more about how they can help power the appliances in your home.