A great reminder on the importance of proper propane tank storage can be seen in this video from Fargo. Never store your propane tanks inside your home or garage.

The approaching winter season means that for many, grilling season is over. The spring, summer and fall are prime grilling seasons in most of the country, and it is a good idea to put your gas grill and propane tank in storage if you are done grilling for the winter. You must remember, however, that propane tanks are not like any other piece of outdoor furniture that you can just throw into a corner of your garage. These tanks are filled with a flammable gas and if they are stored incorrectly, they could become a serious fire hazard. In fact, just one propane tank can blow up an entire house. As you put your gas grill and propane tanks in storage for the winter, make sure you follow these safety tips to ensure that they are stored correctly.

Handling and Inspecting the Propane Tank

Once you have decided to pack up your propane grill for the winter, the first thing you must do is disconnect the propane tank from the grill. Make sure the valve at the top of the tank is closed before disconnecting the hose to avoid spillage. The grill itself is no longer a fire hazard with the propane tank detached, so you can cover the grill and store it in a garage or shed where there is space.

Inspecting the propane cylinder for leaks is extremely important because a leak can cause a fire or even an explosion. First, take the propane tank to an open, well ventilated area and check near the valve and connection points for signs of a leak. You can enlist the help of a professional that can check for leaks using a special solution, or use a solution of soap and water to check yourself. You should also take notice of any odor coming from the propane tank because this could be a sign of a leak. If there is a rotten egg type of smell coming from the propane tank or liquid leaking from the valve or connectors, leave the tank in a well-ventilated area and call the fire department.

The first thing to remember about storing your propane tank is that it must be stored outside, not in the house, garage, or shed. Only completely empty propane tanks should be stored inside. Inside storage can cause the temperature inside the propane tank to rise quickly which is dangerous. It is best to put your tank on a flat surface in an open, well-ventilated area at least 10 feet away from anything flammable. The tank must also be stored above the grade of the yard and away from the home because leaking gas will sink to the lowest air level. If the tank is too close to the home and there is a leak, propane gas may fill your basement. The propane tank must always be stored securely in the upright position to prevent leaks.

If you are ready to put your gas grill in storage for the winter, make sure you carefully follow these propane safety tips to safely and securely store your propane tanks. You must inspect your propane tanks closely and be ready to call 911 if you notice that your tank is leaking or overfilled to prevent a fire or explosion.

Remember, propane tanks should never be stored inside your house or garage.

See video from Fargo this past week: https://www.westfargopioneer.com/news/4821328-Doorbell-camera-captures-Fargo-garage-explosion-propane-leak-blamed