During a propane emergency, what is the recommended priority?

• A. Personal safety first
• B. Protect property
• C. Keep gas flowing
• D. Look for the leak

Answer: (A)

In a propane emergency, personal safety comes first. Propane leaks and fires can escalate quickly, and an injured or overwhelmed person cannot help others or manage the hazard effectively. The immediate priority is to get everyone to a safe location away from the gas, avoid ignition sources, and call for help. If you are trained and can reach and operate the shut-off valve from a safe distance, you may cut off the gas to stop the fuel, but you should not risk your safety to do so. Pursuing the leak or trying to keep gas flowing while danger is present can increase the risk of injury or ignition. After safety is established, you can then coordinate with responders to secure the area and address the situation.