OTTAWA, March 28, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- It was a long, cold, snow-filled winter for many parts of Canada, and warmer temperatures ahead are quickly melting the snowpack. Many Canadians are ready for spring and while it may be too early to tell if bad spring floods will occur, it’s never too early to have a plan in place.
The Canadian Propane Association (CPA) and propane retailers encourage residents to think about how to protect themselves and their property during floods. “Whether caused by heavy rain, spring thaws or other emergencies, floods can be very interruptive for unprepared propane users,” says Nathalie St-Pierre, CPA President and CEO. “But there are a few simple safety precautions that residents can take to ensure they are emergency ready and help keep their homes and family safe.”
The CPA’s Flood Safety Tips can help Canadians take concrete actions to be prepared when flood warnings are issued. Propane is among the safest fuels available – it is non-toxic and dissipates quickly if accidentally released – but it is important to always be cautious when floods occur. Floods can have serious effects on the structure of a home, so it is important to take precautions and follow the CPA’s simple safety measures.
Essential steps include anchoring fuel tanks to the floor – propane tanks, even full ones – will float in water. Learn how and where to shut off the gas supplies to your propane tank and appliances. Make sure your family knows the smell of propane – like rotten eggs or a skunk.
Keep a good supply of propane in your tank as a flood could disrupt deliveries. Talk to your local propane retailer for additional assistance with flood-proofing procedures and advice.
“Everyone has a role to play in being prepared for floods; and being prepared means having the knowledge and equipment necessary to better cope during difficult conditions. We encourage Canadians to take action now and be prepared to protect themselves and their families during emergencies,” said St-Pierre.
For the full list of flood safety tips, please see the attached Fact Sheet: Flood Safety for Propane Users or visit www.propane.ca.
About the Canadian Propane Association: With over 400 members, the Canadian Propane Association (CPA) is the national association for a growing, multi-billion-dollar industry that impacts the livelihood of tens of thousands of Canadians. Our mission is to promote a safe and thriving propane industry that plays a vital role in Canada’s energy sector. To achieve this, we champion propane and the propane industry in Canada and facilitate best practices, safety and a favourable business environment through advocacy, training and emergency response.
For further information, contact: Tammy Hirsch, Sr. Director, Communications and Marketing at info@propane.ca or phone 587-349-5876.
A fact sheet accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/fc542dcd-cff6-406a-b6ff-d8b0d06b2d1d
