cans enjoy the unmatched comfort of propane-powered appliances for space heating, water heating, cooking and clothes drying. To help them stay safe and comfortable in cold weather, the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) offers some advice. “Safety is extremely important to the propane industry,” PERC President and CEO Roy Willis says. “We’ve compiled a checklist that homeowners can follow to put them at ease.” Make sure you have an adequate propane supply. Call for a delivery when your propane tank is 380 percent full. Doing so gives your propane provider time to reach you when roads are bad or demandfor propaneis high. Mark your propane tank. Use a flag, pole or stake higher than the average snow cover depth. The marker will help you avoid plowing into or shoveling snow on top of your tank in case of a heavy snowfall. Consider installing UL-listed propane gas detectors and carbon monoxide detectors for additional security. Always follow the manufacturer instructions for installation, location and maintenance. *Create an emergency preparedness plan. Frequently review the plan with all household members and make sure to post the phone numbers for your propane provider and local emergency services in an accessible place. Whenother power sourcesfail, a propane-powered generator can keep your home operating with- out interruption. Prepare a disaster supply kit. It’s important to be prepared in the case of an emergencyby creating a kit with several days’ worth of water and canned foods, a can opener, extra clothes and blankets, flashlights and batteries. Include a battery-powered NOAA weatherradio to stay informed as conditions change. Consider having a propanepowered generator installed. When other power sources fail, a propane-powered generator can keep your homeoperating without interruption. According to Willis, another step that propane customers should take is to build a strong relationship with their local propane provider. “Weather is unpredictable,” Willis says. “Your propane pro- vider can help you put together a plan to make sure that you have the energy you and your family need when you need it.” For more information on propane and tips, visit www. propanecomfort.com.
