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Reactions to Propane Gas Leaks

A propane gas leak is a serious health concern. The leak can cause symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, a dangerous condition that can lead to brain damage and death. Additionally, the leak is dangerous for its potential to cause fire or explosion.

  1. Detecting Propane Leaks

    • The most obvious way to detect a propane gas leak is through smell. Become familiar with the smell of propane by asking your dealer for a scratch-and-sniff card, or ask to smell the gas when your tank is filled. A possible leak is occurring when the gas smell lasts more than an instant after igniting a stove-top burner, when a foul odor you can't identify persists or when you hear a hissing sound near gas appliances, piping or storage tanks and cylinders. Call your dealer if any of these signs occur.

    Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

    • Reactions to propane leaks are in the form of physical and sometimes mental symptoms due to carbon monoxide levels increasing and not venting. This can cause CO poisoning, a serious and dangerous health condition. Symptoms of CO poisoning include feeling tired, weak or dizzy; vomiting; headaches and a tightness across the temple and forehead; loss of muscle control and watering eyes. If any of these symptoms are present, leave the area immediately.

    Prevention/Solution

    • Preventing propane gas leaks requires a regular maintenance and proactive steps. Don't let the propane tank empty. A leak can occur when the system is recharged if the appliance valve or a gas line is left open after a propane supply runs out. Install CO detectors on each floor of the home. Install a gas detector as an extra precaution. Detectors sound an alarm when they detect leaks.

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