Disaster recovery involves a coordinated effort to restore essential services within communities following a catastrophe. Preparedness is pivotal, as it enables quicker response and more effective recovery. Suburban Propane plays a fundamental role by ensuring a steady and accessible propane supply that enables emergency power generation, essential for hospitals, shelters, and households, all while expediting recovery and rebuilding processes. The American Red Cross is no stranger to disaster recovery, and Suburban Propane is honored to provide aid and support to its relief efforts nationwide through our corporate partnership.

Here are five notable ways in which propane empowers disaster recovery initiatives:

1. Portable and Versatile: Propane can be stored and transported easily, making it an ideal solution for areas where infrastructure damage limits access to traditional energy sources. It’s used to power generators for emergency electricity, heaters for warmth, appliances that allow individuals to have access to hot water, and stoves for cooking, providing a multifaceted solution for basic needs.
2. Reliable: From power outages to blackouts, systems powered by propane remain operational, providing a steady and reliable energy source, unlike electricity which is often hampered. With propane, individuals can enjoy consistent heat and continue using their appliances with reduced disruptions. Plus, unlike gasoline or diesel, propane does not degrade over time, ensuring reliability in times of dire need.
3. Wide Availability: Propane is widely available across the United States, and Suburban Propane has locations and authorized resale partners nationwide. This accessibility ensures that disaster-affected areas – including remote locations, may source propane relatively easily. Additionally, this enables Suburban Propane to support recovery efforts.
4. Heating and Cooking: During emergencies, propane is a perfect energy source to deliver consistent heat and hot water, and power stoves for cooking. Shelters provide vital temporary housing to displaced people and families, and it’s imperative to have a dependable energy source. Shelters may continue to protect, feed, and provide critical assistance to those in need, making it essential for comfort and survival during recovery.
5. Proven Track Record: Propane has a long history of use in disaster recovery efforts, including providing power for hospitals or emergency shelters, and the ability to provide heat, hot water, and warm meals to those affected, and the responders actively conducting recovery work. This highlights the reliability and effectiveness of propane in emergencies. Here’s how Suburban Propane has been able to assist:

1. • Suburban Propane Supports Largo and Waldorf, MD’s COVID-19 Testing/Vaccination Efforts
   • SuburbanCares About Our Local Community in Eugene, OR During the Wildfires
   • Suburban Propane Helps Battle Blazes In Drought-Stricken California

Propane delivers a combination of versatility, reliability, and availability, that make it an ideal energy source for disaster recovery efforts. Having access to a dependable and easily accessible energy source becomes crucial for both individuals and organizations. Whether for personal emergency power needs or organizations involved in disaster relief operations, propane emerges as a highly versatile and reliable energy option, critical in enhancing our resilience and preparedness for future crises.

The post How Propane Powers Disaster Recovery Efforts appeared first on Suburban Propane.

Here are the top 9 reasons to opt for a propane-powered generator for uninterrupted energy:

1. Immediate Power Supply: Propane generators are known for their rapid response. These standby generators can kick into action immediately when the power goes out. Free of interruptions, propane-powered generators can restore heat and electricity without any hassle, ensuring your critical systems continue running without interruption.
2. Reliability: Even when the electricity is down, you can rely on generators powered by propane to provide a stable energy source. You can be up and running again in as little as 10 seconds after an outage. Propane-powered generators can handle an entire home’s energy needs for days.
3. Versatility: Propane generators are used for various applications. From residential to commercial settings, they can power everything from heating and cooling systems to appliances, keeping your environment comfortable and functional.
4. Clean Energy: Propane is recognized as a clean energy source that produces fewer harmful emissions than gasoline and diesel. Plus, it vaporizes quickly and won’t contaminate water or soil if spilled.
5. Longevity: Propane generators have a longer lifespan than their gasoline counterparts. With reduced maintenance hassles, they can offer reliable power for many years, providing peace of mind in the face of unpredictable outages.
6. Readily Available: Propane is domestically manufactured and readily accessible, making it an extensively utilized energy source for numerous industries. Between its reliability and popularity to provide unparalleled comfort and efficiency, it is evident why generators powered by propane are chosen.
7. Cost-Efficiency: Propane is renowned for its exceptional energy efficiency, reducing the need for frequent refueling. Additionally, propane-powered generators require less maintenance, reducing upkeep costs and helping save money in the long run. Between lower operating costs, availability, and high efficiency, propane generators are a cost-effective solution for dependable standby energy.
8. Dependable: Unlike gasoline or diesel, propane will not degrade over time, meaning your propane supply will be ready. Propane generators are a stable and dependable source of power, particularly when you need it most.
9. On-Site Fuel Storage: Propane can be stored on-site in above-ground or below-ground tanks, eliminating the need for frequent refueling trips and ensuring a continuous power supply.

Opting for a propane-powered generator emerges as a strategic choice for maintaining uninterrupted energy in residential and commercial settings. Ranging from immediate power supply and reliability to cost-efficiency and longevity, underscore the advantages of propane generators. In light of the unpredictable and frequent nature of power outages, planning ahead and investing in a propane-powered generator proves to be a proactive and wise decision, ensuring continuous power supply during critical moments.

The post 9 Reasons to Opt for a Propane Powered Generator for Uninterrupted Energy appeared first on Suburban Propane.

PREPARING FOR EVERY POSSIBILITY

Before, during, and after a storm, there are a few key things to consider to keep your family and your home as safe as possible.

CREATE AN EMERGENCY PLAN

Work with your family to create a plan in the event of a hurricane. As part of this effort, make sure to post contact information for emergency services and utility companies—including your local propane supplier. You should also post instructions for turning off your propane, electricity, and water. (If you turn off your propane, contact a service technician to inspect your system before turning it back on.)

ANCHOR YOUR TANK

In flood zone areas, large propane tanks should be anchored securely to avoid potentially dangerous situations. This is required by the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA). Your propane supplier can determine if and how anchoring your tank should be done.

PLAN FOR COMMUNICATIONS

Keep a battery-powered radio handy, so you always have a way to receive updates on weather conditions. As storms approach, it’s also smart to charge up your smartphones, so you have an additional tool for communication through a long power outage. Or, consider purchasing a propane generator so you always have reliable power, even during blackouts.

INSPECT DAMAGE CAUTIOUSLY

If a storm causes harm to your property, be careful when you assess damage as downed power lines, damaged gas lines, and dislodged propane tanks can lead to dangerous situations. In the dark, use a flashlight instead of candles to avoid combustion in the case of a leak, and never inspect appliances while standing in water.

IF YOU SENSE DANGER, CALL THE EXPERTS

Your utility company, fire department, and propane supplier have expert training, and should handle any potentially dangerous situations with your home’s systems. Additionally, if a storm damages your property, it’s a good idea to have a qualified service technician perform a complete inspection of your propane system, to ensure no harmful damage was done.

Courtesy of Propane Education Research Council

The post Propane Safety and Hurricanes appeared first on Suburban Propane.

Should the power go out for any of these reasons, homeowners with propane-powered generators can rest easy knowing their home systems will be up and running without worry. A propane-powered generator is a cost-effective way to keep all appliances running, including essential sump pumps and the heating/cooling systems until power in your area is restored. If your home relies on well water and are without electricity, you will soon lose access to freshwater for drinking, bathing, and heating without the added security of a generator.

Additionally, with so many attending school and working from home, a propane-powered generator allows you to charge all devices, keep the WIFI up and running, and log on for that 9 am class or team meeting.

As a cleaning burning fuel, propane produces fewer emissions, and propane-powered generators are better for the atmosphere than traditional gas-powered generators. Unfortunately, power outages are common and unpredictable, and can last minutes to weeks. Be prepared, plan ahead, and have a propane-powered generator on hand.

The post The Importance of a Propane-powered Generator appeared first on Suburban Propane.

Make Sure the Pantry Isn’t Bare
Staying indoors is the most important tip during inclement winter weather, therefore it’s important you have a fully stocked pantry, which should include at least 3-5 days of non-perishable food items in the event of a power outage. These items should include packaged foods, such as cereal, peanut butter, crackers, instant oatmeal, protein bars, fruit cups, canned tuna, shelf-stable milk, soups, and canned items. Be sure to take your pets into account too!

In addition to food, you will need water on hand in the event pipes freeze and tap water is not accessible. This can be done by either filling up gallon jugs with tap water ahead of time or pre-purchasing water at the store. A rule of thumb is three gallons per person (including pets). Be sure to also stock your pantry with hygiene items for the family such as toilet paper and diapers.

Prepare for a Power Outage
Ahead of the storm, make sure all devices are fully charged, including extra battery packs. Place candles, matches, and flashlights in an accessible location.

If the area you live in loses power frequently due to weather or other reasons, you may want to consider getting a propane generator. If you already have one, check to see that it is operational and you have additional fuel before the storm. Be sure you are familiar with the operating instructions of the generator, place it outdoors, and in a well-ventilated area.

The post Suburban Propane’s Winter Preparedness Tips appeared first on Suburban Propane.

Work with your family to create a plan in the event of a hurricane. As part of this effort, make sure to post contact information for emergency services and utility companies—including your local propane supplier. You should also post instructions for turning off your propane, electricity, and water. (If you turn off your propane, contact a service technician to inspect your system before turning it back on.)

ANCHOR YOUR TANK

In flood zone areas, large propane tanks should be anchored securely to avoid potentially dangerous situations. This is required by the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA). Your propane supplier can determine if and how anchoring your tank should be done.

PLAN FOR COMMUNICATIONS

Keep a battery-powered radio handy, so you always have a way to receive updates on weather conditions. As storms approach, it’s also smart to charge up your smartphones, so you have an additional tool for communication through a long power outage. Or, consider purchasing a propane generator so you always have reliable power, even during blackouts.

INSPECT DAMAGE CAUTIOUSLY

If a storm causes harm to your property, be careful when you assess damage as downed power lines, damaged gas lines, and dislodged propane tanks can lead to dangerous situations. In the dark, use a flashlight instead of candles to avoid combustion in the case of a leak, and never inspect appliances while standing in water.

IF YOU SENSE DANGER, CALL THE EXPERTS

Your utility company, fire department, and propane supplier have expert training, and should handle any potentially dangerous situations with your home’s systems. Additionally, if a storm damages your property, it’s a good idea to have a qualified service technician perform a complete inspection of your propane system, to ensure no harmful damage was done.

Courtesy of Propane Education & Research Council

The post Preparing for Every Possibility appeared first on Suburban Propane.

According to the National Weather Service, over 140 deaths per year are caused by flash floods and floods that are associated with thunderstorms. Each year, floods cause an average of $4.6 billion in damage to homes and businesses.

If your home uses propane, there are a few simple steps you can take to keep your family safe and avoid potential dangers.

1. Create an emergency preparedness plan and review it with everyone in your family. Post a list with contact information for your propane supplier and emergency services (fire department, etc.) along with instructions for turning off propane, electricity, and water. If you do need to turn off your propane, contact a service technician to inspect your propane system prior to turning it back on.

2. In flood zone areas, make sure your large above-ground and underground propane tanks are anchored securely to avoid potentially dangerous situations. The National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) requires that you do this. Contact your propane supplier for more information.

3. Have an adequate supply of propane in your tank. During and after a major flood, propane and other types of fuel may not be readily available and roads leading to your home or farm might not be accessible for delivery.

4. In the event that a flood threatens your safety, you should shut off the gas. Turn off the main gas supply valve on your propane tank, if it is safe to do so. To close the valve, turn it to the right (clockwise). Also, it’s a good idea to turn off the gas supply valves located near individual indoor appliances. You may have to evacuate your property or move to a higher level within your home.

5. Listen to your local authorities, or television and radio stations to determine if you need to evacuate your home or farm. If you do evacuate, use extreme caution when returning to your property. If you have any doubts about your safety, leave the area immediately and have your property inspected by a qualified building inspector or structural engineer before re-entering.

6. After the flood danger passes and it is safe to do so, check the entire area for downed power lines, damaged gas lines, or damage to your propane tank. Floods can move, shift, or damage gas lines and tanks. If it is dark, use flashlights, not candles. Immediately call your local utility company or propane supplier if any of these hazards exist. Do not attempt repairs yourself. If you find a propane tank on your property that is not yours, or if your propane tank has become dislodged or is missing, contact your propane supplier or your local fire department immediately.

7. Never use outdoor propane appliances indoors or in enclosed areas, particularly during a power outage. This can result in carbon monoxide poisoning or death. These include such appliances as outdoor portable heaters, barbecue grills, and portable generators. Only use appliances indoors that are designed and approved for indoor use. It’s also important that you never store, place, or use a propane cylinder indoors or enclosed areas such as a basement, garage, shed, or tent.

8. Inspect your propane appliances for water or other damage, if it is safe to do so. If the appliances have electric components and have been exposed to water, they can create a fire hazard. Do not ever turn on a light switch, use any power source, or inspect your household appliances while standing in water. This can result in electrocution.

9. Schedule a time for a qualified service technician to perform a complete inspection of your propane system if you suspect any of your propane appliances, equipment, or vehicles have been under water or damaged, or you have turned off your gas supply. Never use or operate appliances, equipment, or vehicles, or turn on the gas supply, until your system has been inspected by a qualified service technician. Do not attempt repairs yourself.

10. Exercise sound judgment. As with any challenging situation, your composure during floods and other severe weather events will ensure you don’t take unnecessary risks or pose any additional dangers to your family and home. Stay calm; use radios, television, and telephones to stay informed and connected. If any questions arise, contact your propane supplier or local fire department.

Courtesy of Propane Education & Research Council

The post 10 Tips to Keep Your Propane-Powered Home Safe During a Flood appeared first on Suburban Propane.

If you live in an area that’s at risk of wildfires, make sure you’re prepared for the unexpected. Follow the tips below and contact your local propane supplier if your propane system ever gets damaged.

CREATE AN EMERGENCY PLAN

Work with your family to create a plan in the event of a wildfire. As part of this effort, make sure to post contact information for emergency services and utility companies—including your local propane supplier. You should also post instructions for turning off your propane, electricity, and water. (If you turn off your propane, contact a service technician to inspect your system before turning it back on.)

CLEAR 10 FEET OF SPACE

The area around your propane tank and propane grill should be clear of anything that is combustible or easily ignited, including leaves, brush, vegetation, and rags. More importantly, never store or use a propane cylinder indoors or in an enclosed area such as a basement, garage, shed, or tent.

PLAN FOR COMMUNICATIONS

Keep a battery-powered radio handy, so you always have a way to receive updates. It’s also smart to charge up your smartphones, so you have an additional tool for communication in the case of a power outage.

INSPECT DAMAGE CAUTIOUSLY

If a wildfire causes harm to your property, be careful when you assess damage as downed power lines, damaged gas lines, and dislodged propane tanks can lead to dangerous situations. In the dark, use a flashlight instead of candles to avoid combustion in the case of a leak.

IF YOU SENSE DANGER, CALL THE EXPERTS

Your utility company, fire department, and propane supplier have expert training, and should handle any potentially dangerous situations with your home’s systems. Additionally, if a wildfire damages your property, it’s a good idea to have a qualified service technician perform a complete inspection of your propane system, to ensure no harmful damage was done.

Courtesy of Propane Education & Research Council

The post Preparing Your Propane-Powered Home in the Event of a Wildfire Threat appeared first on Suburban Propane.

Here’s a few tips on how to handle and transport them safely.

1. Transport propane cylinders safely in your vehicle by storing them securely and upright so they can’t fall, shift, or roll in transit.
2. Follow manufacturer’s instructions to connect the cylinder to the appliance. Be sure to check for gas leaks between the cylinder and outdoor appliance fitting or regulator every time you connect the two.
3. Store cylinders outdoors — never in an enclosed area like a basement, garage, shed, or tent — and away from the house and any other heat source.

The post How to Handle and Transport Small Cylinders appeared first on Suburban Propane.

Here are some tips to stay safe all storm-season long:

Create an emergency preparedness kit and have a family plan for storm season. Ready.gov has some great ideas to prepare your family.

Consider installing UL-listed propane gas detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. These provide you with another layer of security.

If you are outside and can hear thunder, you are close enough to the storm to be struck by lightening. Seek shelter immediately and stay away from metal objects, including your propane tanks and equipment.

If threatened by floods, shut off the gas. Turn off the main gas supply valve on your propane tank, if it is safe to do so. To close the valve, turn it to the right (clockwise).

Take action immediately if a tornado is approaching. Go to the lowest level of the building or the center of an interior room on the lowest level if a basement is not an option.

After the storm passes and it is safe to do so, check the entire area for downed power lines, damaged gas lines, or damage to your propane tank. High winds and hail can move, shift, or damage gas lines and tanks.

Never use outdoor propane appliances indoors or in enclosed areas, particularly during a power outage. It’s also important that you never store, place, or use a propane cylinder indoors or in enclosed areas such as a basement, garage, shed, or tent. This can result in carbon monoxide poisoning or death.

Inspect your propane appliances for water or other damage, if it is safe to do so. If the appliances have electric components and have been exposed to water, they can create a fire hazard. Do not ever turn on a light switch, use any power source, or inspect your household appliances while standing in water. This can result in electrocution.

Schedule a time for a qualified service technician to perform a complete inspection of your propane system if you suspect any of your propane appliances, equipment, or vehicles have been under water or damaged, or you have turned off your gas supply.

The post How To Prep My Propane Home For Storms appeared first on Suburban Propane.