Tornadoes can occur during any season of the year. In some cases, they can occur with little or no warning, bringing with them winds that can exceed 250 miles per hour. Every year, there are approximately 70 fatalities and 1,500 injuries from tornadoes.

PREPARING FOR EVERY POSSIBILITY

Before, during, and after a storm, there are a few key things to consider to keep your family and your home as safe as possible.

1. Create an emergency plan. Work with your family to create a plan in the event of a tornado. As part of this effort, make sure to post contact information for emergency services and utility companies—including your local propane supplier. You should also post instructions for turning off your propane, electricity, and water. (If you turn off your propane, contact a service technician to inspect your system before turning it back on.)
2. Install a UL-listed gas detector. To better prepare for any potential damage, install a UL-listed gas detector in your home, which will notify you if a leak ever occurs. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when it comes to installation, location, and maintenance.
3. Plan for communications. Keep a battery-powered radio handy, so you always have a way to receive updates on weather conditions. As storms approach, it’s also smart to charge up your smartphones, so you have an additional tool for communication through a long power outage. Or, consider purchasing a propane generator so you always have reliable power, even during blackouts.
4. Inspect damage cautiously. If a storm causes harm to your property, be careful when you assess damage as downed power lines, damaged gas lines, and dislodged propane tanks can lead to dangerous situations. In the dark, use a flashlight instead of candles to avoid combustion in the case of a leak, and never inspect appliances while standing in water.
5. If you sense danger, call the experts. Your utility company, fire department, and propane supplier have expert training, and should handle any potentially dangerous situations with your home’s systems. Additionally, if a storm damages your property, it’s a good idea to have a qualified service technician perform a complete inspection of your propane system, to ensure no harmful damage was done.

Contact us for additional information on preparing for thunderstorms and other severe weather conditions.