Propane Safety
Pop UP Times Staff Report
Propane
is often the pop up campers fuel of choice for cooking,
heating and refrigeration. Inexpensive and convenient to
use, this potentially dangerous substance should not be
taken for granted. Propane, especially in liquid form, should
be treated with the same respect one has for gasoline. Its
incredibly flammable, prone to leak, and, unlike gasoline,
under extreme pressure.
Here
are some important safe-handling tips to remember:
-
Always transport cylinders secured in an upright position
with the service valve closed
- Keep
away from heat sources and do not smoke while handling
or transporting propane cylinders
- Never
store in an enclosed area, including houses, garages,
sheds, pop ups or tents. Do not leave in a trunk for
any longer than a trip to the refueling station. Dismount
the cylinder when parking your camper in a garage
- Make
sure you have a propane alarm installed in your pop
up, near the floor. (Propane is heavier than air.)
- Periodically
check for leaks by applying a soapy leak-detection solution
(one part liquid dish soap to five parts water) to the
connections. NEVER use a flame
- If
you smell a gas leak in or around your pop up, immediately
turn off gas valve. Do nothing to cause a spark. Extinguish
any open flames, cigarettes, etc. Leave area and allow
gas to dissipate. Unless a leak can be fixed by tightening
a loose connection, call a propane repairperson to take
care of the problem
- When
using unvented propane equipment, such as a catalytic
heater, a window must be open so fresh air can enter
to replenish the oxygen. Never use the galley range
(or a propane heater not designed for indoor use) to
heat the pop up
- Those
who run their refrigerator on propane while traveling
must be sure to turn the pilot light off before fueling
their vehicle
- Remember
that some tunnels in the US require propane valves to
be turned off before entering. Others do not allow cylinders
of propane at all. Call the offices of tourism of the
states you wish to visit to familiarize yourself with
their laws
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