Question 1

Know how to keep your home and loved ones safe and secure

Accepted Answer

Propane companies like Cortez Gas, in conjunction with robust government regulations, have played a pivotal role in upholding an outstanding safety record for propane.
While propane is generally safe for home use, it is crucial to understand proper safety measures and steps to mitigate any potential risks in the unlikely event of a propane leak. To enhance your knowledge of propane safety and ensure peace of mind while using it in your New Mexico home, we have put together a comprehensive list of frequently asked questions and their corresponding answers.

Question 2

What does propane smell like?

Accepted Answer

This is the first and most important fact about propane that you must learn.
Propane is naturally odorless, but manufacturers enhance its safety by adding an odorant, typically ethyl mercaptan. This added scent enables people to detect any propane leaks easily and swiftly.
If you detect a pungent and unpleasant scent reminiscent of rotten eggs or a skunk’s spray within your home, it is highly likely that there is a propane gas leak present.

Question 3

I smell gas. What do I do?

Accepted Answer

Don’t panic. By following the safety steps below, you can calmly do what needs to be done and protect your loved ones and property.
Also, don’t try to locate the source of the odor. Entrust this task to the specialists while focusing on ensuring your own safety and that of those around you.
Now, let’s discuss the steps you should follow upon detecting the unmistakable odor of rotten eggs or skunk, indicating that there is a propane leak.
 • Leave the house immediately and remember to bring your pets with you as well.
 • Before you leave, make sure to extinguish any possible sources of ignition, such as candles or cigarettes.
 • Refrain from using any items that have the potential to generate sparks, such as light switches, telephones or vape pens, as you are leaving.
 • Turn off the propane supply valve on your propane tank if you can safely get to it. All adults in your household need to know how to do this. If anyone doesn’t, take the time now to get in touch with us and we’ll make sure they learn.
 • Once you have moved to a safe distance from the propane leak, promptly contact 911 ,and then reach out to Cortez Gas without delay.
 • Maintain a safe distance until the first responders and service technicians have successfully located and repaired the leak. Wait for their approval before reentering your home.

Question 4

How do I protect my home from propane leaks?

Accepted Answer

Ensuring regular maintenance from a professional for all your propane appliances is one of the most effective measures to prevent propane leaks. This proactive approach not only enhances safety but also promotes optimal performance and longevity of your propane system.
As part of a tune-up, a skilled propane service technician will perform a comprehensive examination of your appliances. Should they detect any potential gas leak problems, they possess the expertise to rectify them promptly and effectively.
Enhance the safety of your home by investing in propane leak detectors. Strategically position these detectors near your propane appliances, including water heaters, stoves and fireplaces. Keep in mind that placing them lower than the level of your pillows is crucial, as propane gas tends to be heavier than air.
It is incorrect to assume that carbon monoxide detectors are capable of detecting propane leaks. These detectors are specifically designed for carbon monoxide detection and cannot fulfill the role of propane leak detection. Similarly, propane leak detectors are not equipped to detect carbon monoxide leaks. To ensure comprehensive safety, it is imperative to install both types of detectors in your home.
The Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) has created the videos below to provide comprehensive information on propane safety. Topics covered include the proper handling and transportation of propane cylinders, maintenance of propane appliances and much more. Explore these resources to ensure you have a clear understanding of propane safety.

Propane Safety