Winter can be beautiful, especially when fresh fallen snow blankets the trees and the world appears to grow still. It’s that moment when you wake up in the middle of the night to see snow falling lightly outside your window and you’re within the warmth and comfort of your bed.
On the flip side, winter can also be unforgiving. A few weeks into the new year and we’ve already experienced two major winter storms.
When the weather is treacherous and you just want to be cozy inside, the last thing you want is to realize you’re out of the propane that heats your home or to discover your propane is no longer working.
If you’re using propane to warm your home, here are some winter safety tips.
Some General Safety Tips
Propane is one of the safest fuels you can use at home or your place of business. It is entirely free of toxins and, in comparison to other fuels, has the lowest flammability range. While it is quite safe, proper maintenance and handling is important. Teach everyone in your home how to properly turn off your propane supply from the tank. You should also be well familiarized with where the gas lines are in your home, especially if you are currently completing renovations. If any of your propane equipment appears damaged or isn’t working properly, shut it off and contact us.
Install carbon monoxide and smoke detectors in your home. Legally, homes in Ontario are required to have carbon monoxide detectors if they have fuel burning appliances inside, meaning that if you have a propane appliance, you need a carbon monoxide detector too.
Recognize the signs of a propane leak. A common sign of a propane leak is the smell of rotten eggs. If you do think there may be a propane leak, evacuate the premises immediately and contact your local propane supplier.
Use Energy Wisely
In a previous blog, we discussed tips on how to keep your heating costs down. Conserving energy by turning down the thermostat a few degrees at night or when no one is home will ensure your propane extends the duration of your propane supply.
If a Storm is in The Forecast
If treacherous weather is in the forecast, check to see if you have enough propane to last for a week, in case there are road closures that block our propane deliveries. Check to see if the tank level has dropped and then give us a call. You can never be too prepared!
When a Delivery is on The Way
If you have a propane delivery on the way, take a look at the conditions around your property. If there was a storm before your delivery, ensure that there is a clear path from your driveway to your propane tank so that the driver doesn’t get stuck.
Driveways and sidewalks can get slippery. Make sure you salt the pathway if you see it is icy.
If your propane tank is outside, it should be in a safe location and easily accessible. Clearly mark propane tanks so that you can find them in the case of significant snowfall.
Make sure snow and ice is cleared off propane tanks by using a broom to brush off the snow or ice. Check to ensure the surrounding area is clear.
Set up a Regular Delivery Schedule
At Brown’s Fuels, we offer auto scheduled delivery services to ensure that your home is never cold during the winter. Sometimes, the weather isn’t always going to be cooperative during your delivery days, but we will ensure the delivery goes as smoothly as possible.
When there’s a heavy snow storm, one of the last things you want to discover is that you are low on propane. Setting up regular, auto delivery services ensures that you and your family will never be without heat and saves you the trouble of having to schedule time to call us yourself. It gives you peace of mind knowing your propane will be ready to use when you need it.
We monitor and track your needs based on factors like the size of your house, usage rates and the weather.
We deliver propane services year-round across the region, including Milton, Hamilton and more. Contact us today or give us a call at 1-888-542-7799.