Welcome to the Dead River Company blog!

From the time we’re old enough to comprehend, we’re given instructions on how to stay safe. From “always look both ways before crossing the street” to “no running with scissors!” the admonitions for safety are everywhere.

We do things every day to stay safe—we step on a bathmat after a shower; we wear our seatbelts; and we keep our propane tanks clear of snow and ice. Wait, what?

Propane safety may not come as naturally as putting your seat belt on when getting into a car, but that’s why we’re here to offer this advice.

Propane is a safe and energy-efficient way to heat your home or power your appliances and as with any power source, you need to pay attention to safety.

Follow these propane tank safety tips routinely for peace of mind all winter long.

• Keep tanks clear of snow and ice.
• After storms, check to make sure propane lines are not damaged by snow and ice.
  • If lines appear damaged, call your propane provider immediately.
• Underground tank? Make sure it’s clearly marked with a ground stake or brightly colored fiberglass pole. This alerts both the delivery driver and snowplows.
  • If a plow runs over your underground tank you should immediately call your local provider to come check for leaks and damages to the tank.
• Inspect for rust or cracks.
• If you suspect a leak, turn off the main supply valve only if it’s safe to do so.
• If you think you smell propane, leave your house, get to a safe place, and call your provider immediately to report the smell. (Always err on the side of safety.)

And remember, propane safety also applies to the delivery of your propane:

• Please clear a path to your tank.
• Because most tanks are set near the house, make sure there is no falling snow or ice above your tank where the driver stands during delivery.
• Plow and properly sand the driveway. Propane trucks are big. And heavy. While they’re all equipped for winter driving, they can’t navigate sheer ice (especially on a hill). Drivers do all they can to make a delivery, but if they deem a property unsafe, you run the risk of having your delivery delayed until they can safely maneuver.