Preparing For Severe Weather In A Propane-Powered Home

Atlantic Hurricane Season 2020 is officially underway, and experts expect it to be an active one. While we don’t often bear the full force of these powerful storms here in New England, they can certainly still do some damage.

That makes now a good time to review your plans for dealing with severe weather complications in your propane-powered Rhode Island or southeastern MA home.

Some reminders to review with your family:

• Always listen to local authorities; if you must evacuate your property, use caution when returning.
• Create an emergency plan and review it with your family. Post a list with our contact information plus numbers for emergency services, along with instructions for turning off propane, electricity, and water.
• If you have an aboveground propane tank, make sure it is securely anchored to a concrete pad or blocks. Photograph your propane tank nameplate in case the tank becomes dislodged. If you live in a flood-prone area, consider installing an underground propane tank.
• Make sure you have enough propane to last at least a week or more in the event of road closures. If you don’t have enough fuel, schedule a propane delivery as soon as possible.
• If you have a propane backup generator, test it now, before severe weather strikes; also, make sure you have enough propane on-hand to run it for at least a week in case propane deliveries are temporarily suspended or delayed. If you don’t have a propane backup generator, consider having one installed.
• If severe weather threatens your safety, turn off the main gas supply valve on your propane tank if it is safe to do so. Also, turn off the gas supply valves located near individual indoor appliances. If you do not know how to do this, contact us for instructions.
• Once severe weather passes, check the area for downed power lines, damaged gas lines, or damage to your propane appliances. If the appliances have been damaged, contact us for service immediately.
• NEVER turn on a light switch, use any power source, or inspect your household appliances while standing in water.
• NEVER use outdoor, fuel-burning appliances indoors or in enclosed area. This can result in carbon monoxide poisoning, which can be deadly.

Have questions about propane safety for severe weather, or need a propane delivery in northern Rhode Island or southeastern Massachusetts? Trust the pros at W.H. Riley & Son. Contact us today to learn more.

Please note: At W.H. Riley & Son, your safety and comfort are always our priority. Please check our coronavirus update page regularly to learn more about how we are working to keep our your family and our crews safe and your propane deliveries coming during this challenging COVID-19 time.