Know What to Do If You Run Out of Gas

Running out of propane is a serious safety hazard that can result in fire or explosion. When a container runs out of propane, all pilot lights will be extinguished. If an appliance valve or a gas line is left open (i.e. the stove) when the propane supply runs out, a leak could occur when the system is recharged with propane and resumes feeding the open appliance/valve.

• Action: Anytime you run out of gas, close the propane supply valve on the container and check all appliance valves to ensure they are closed.
• Action: Do not attempt to re-light pilot lights or activate appliances until you’ve checked all fittings for leaks or have a qualified service technician check for you. Do not re-light pilot lights until you are certain there are no leaks. You may choose to have the technician do this for you. See also Don't Take Chances With Your Pilot Light.

When a propane container is empty, it’s possible for air and moisture to get in, causing the container to rust. Rust in the container can deplete the odourant that is added to propane, making the propane harder to detect in the event of a leak. See also Be Familiar With Propane's Odour.

• Action: To prevent a run out, be sure to check the fuel gauge on your propane container on a regular basis. Do not let the fuel level drop below 20-30%.
• Action: If a hurricane, winter storm, or other major weather event is expected in your area, ensure you have enough propane in your tank. Be prepared in case of an extended delay in propane delivery.
• Action: To ensure that you do not run out of propane, contact your propane retailer to set up a regular delivery schedule.
• Action: To prevent rust, ensure that valves on empty tanks or cylinders are closed.

Don't Take Chances With Your Pilot Light

If you repeatedly have problems with a pilot light, it may be a safety issue – call a professional. Lighting the pilot light yourself can cause an explosion or fire.

If you still choose to light the pilot light, be sure to use extreme caution and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Before lighting the pilot light:

• Ensure that the area has been completely ventilated. Check for the smell of propane, especially in low-lying areas like floors, basements, and crawl spaces.
• If you smell gas, or are in an area where it is difficult to check for the smell of propane, do no light the pilot light. See Treat Leaks and Suspected Leaks Seriously, and Be Familiar With Propane's Odour.
• Extinguish or remove any source of ignition, smoking materials, or open flames in the area.
• Ensure the room has been vacated of all other occupants.
• Use care when operating any controls, as forcing or prying them could cause a leak. Do not apply lubricants, since this can cause the controls to malfunction.
• Do not open any valves or fitting in an enclosed area, as this may release gas that is difficult to detect.

A pilot light in your home, R.V. or camper can ignite vapours from gasoline, paint thinner, kerosene, camp fuel, butane, alcohol, lamp oil and other flammable liquids – store and use such liquids in areas where there are no propane appliances.