Propane Safety Tips

Call 811

Before you dig, please call the Diggers Hotline (811) to help you locate all underground lines in your vicinity. The size and location of your gas system may require compliance with federal, state, or local laws. Consult the relevant authorities and the Office of Pipeline Safety.

Excess flow valves / 49 CFR §192.383

Ferrellgas is required by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), to notify Jurisdictional System customers that an excess flow valve ("EFV") that meets the minimum DOT performance standards is available for installation on your propane service line. An EFV is a safety device that is designed to automatically stop the flow of propane if the flow of gas through the device exceeds a pre-determined rate. Such a device is not required for the normal, safe operation of your service line, but could help to lessen the severity of service line failure, such as a break or excavation damage. Please contact your local Ferrellgas office for installation of this device, if you choose to do so.

Federal law has required the installation of EFVs on new and replacement service lines for single family residences since 2010. For customers with an existing service line, it is considered an optional safety measure that could help to mitigate the consequences of a service line failure (i.e. break, rupture, etc.). Customers who want to find out if their home currently has an EFV may call their local Ferrellgas office.
 
Customers with an existing service line who would like to request installation of an EFV as an additional safety measure may call their local Ferrellgas office to schedule an appointment. We must install an EFV at a mutually agreeable date if a service line customer requests installation of an EFV provided that the load does not exceed 1,000 standard cubic feet per hour (SCFH) and that (1) the service line operates at a pressure of 10 psig or greater throughout the year; (2) We do not have prior experience with contaminants in the gas stream that could interfere with the EFV’s operation or cause loss of service to a customer; (3) an EFV will not interfere with necessary operation and maintenance activities, and (4) an EFV meeting the performance standards in 49 C.F.R. § 192.381 is commercially available.
 
Because the EFV is an option, the cost of installation (labor and materials) on an existing service is the customer’s responsibility, and will generally range from $1,500 to $3,500, depending on what the service line is made of (plastic vs steel), the excavation work required, permitting requirements, etc. Costs for maintaining and replacing an EFV may later be incurred, and will be based on a cost per hour rate, which is determined by your local Ferrellgas office.
 
An excavation will be required to uncover the service line and install the EFV. The EFV normally is installed very close to the main gas line, typically near the road and/or property line. There may be instances where an EFV cannot be installed. Each situation will be evaluated upon request.

Safety is one of our core values.

Every year, each Ferrellgas propane service location participates in the Ferrellgas Quality Review, a model safety program for the propane industry. Our employees also undergo extensive classroom and hands-on training. When you become a customer, our technicians complete thorough inspections of your tank and system, and they provide FerrellMeter® leak-detection system tests as needed. 

Safety training for your home, business, and children.

Need propane safety training at your home or business? Contact us. For kids’ propane safety education, visit www.propanekids.com.

Safety begins with education.

Download these resources to help you better understand your propane system.

• Propane Safety
• Propane Safety (Spanish)
• Propane Safety Information For You And Your Family
• Propane Safety Information (Spanish)
• Propane Safety Information For Users Of Small Cylinders
• Safety Data Sheet (SDS) – This explains the chemical makeup of propane, as well as personal protective measures and steps to take in case of accidental exposure on the job.

Consumer Safety Video

Weather Emergency Tips

When weather emergencies threaten your home and your propane system, follow these safety tips. If you have any questions, contact us by chatting with a Customer Service Specialist below or by phone at 888-337-7355.

• If evacuating your home, turn off the service valve on your propane tank and the shutoff valve on all propane appliances.
• Secure propane equipment, tanks, and cylinders by tying them to stationary objects. If time allows, contact your local office and ask them to move your tank to higher ground.
• If your propane tank becomes dislodged or you believe there is a gas leak in your home, evacuate as soon as possible. Contact your local fire department from a safe location. Do not call from the vicinity of the suspected leak.
• Use extreme caution when returning to your home. Contact your local office to schedule a safety inspection.

Thunderstorm safety

Click here to read 10 things to keep in mind during severe thunderstorms.

Summer safety tips

When the weather warms up, homeowners and families start heading back outside. Here are some spring and summer tips for proper maintenance of propane systems and propane-powered appliances.

• Remove any combustible materials, such dry grass, wood, or debris, within 10 feet of your propane tank or cylinder(s).
• If you have appliances that have not been used since last fall, such as a gas-fired pool heater or gas grill, have them inspected by a qualified service technician before using.
• Do not store propane cylinders or tanks inside buildings.
• Planting new trees or doing major landscaping? Call 811 before you dig.

Grilling safety tips

Click here for six grilling tips to keep you and your family safe this summer.

Want to learn even more?

Visit propane.com/safety.