Propane Council of Texas Offers Key Safety Reminders Following Devastating Texas Flooding

As communities across the Texas Hill Country continue recovering from the catastrophic July flooding that claimed lives, displaced thousands of Texans, and caused widespread damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure, propane is playing an important role in relief and recovery efforts. Across the affected areas, propane is helping power backup generators, emergency shelters, mobile kitchens, and other critical operations that support first responders and communities as they rebuild.

As residents begin returning to their homes and properties, the Propane Council of Texas (ProCOT) is reminding propane customers to make safety their first priority. Floodwaters can damage propane tanks, regulators, gas lines, and appliances—even when damage is not immediately visible. Any propane system or appliance that has been exposed to floodwaters should be inspected by a qualified propane service technician before being returned to service.

Safety Tips for Propane Customers After Flooding:

1. Don't Ignore the Smell of Propane

If you smell propane (rotten egg odor), evacuate immediately.

From a safe location, call your propane retailer or 911. Do not return to property until cleared by emergency responders.

Do not operate lights, phones, vehicles, or anything that could create a spark near the suspected leak.

2. Watch for Dislodged or Damaged Tanks

Before approaching your propane system, look for tanks that have shifted, floated, tipped over, or have damaged regulators, piping, or gas lines.

If it is safe to do so, close the tank service valve (turn clockwise) and contact your propane retailer.

If you discover a propane tank that does not belong to you, do not approach it. Report it to the propane provider whose name is on the tank, the nearest propane supplier or your local fire department.

3. Water Inside the Propane Tank Can Cause Hidden Damage

Floodwaters can introduce moisture into the tank, leading to internal corrosion and rust.

Moisture may also contribute to odor fade, making propane leaks harder to detect.

Never assume a flooded tank is safe simply because it appears undamaged.

4. Do Not Operate Propane Equipment Until It Has Been Inspected

If your propane tank, regulators, gas lines, or appliances were exposed to floodwater, do not attempt to use them.

Even partial submersion can damage gas controls and electrical components, creating serious hazards.

Have the entire system inspected before restoring service.

5. Contact Your Propane Retailer

Schedule an inspection of your tank, regulators, piping, gauges, and appliances.

Your propane retailer can perform leak tests, identify hidden damage, and safely restore service.

Be patient, as many customers may be requesting assistance following the flooding.

6. Beware of Carbon Monoxide (CO)

Never operate portable generators, grills, outdoor heaters, or other outdoor propane appliances inside homes, garages, or enclosed spaces.

Carbon monoxide is odorless, colorless, and can be deadly within minutes.

7. Maintain Clear Access to Your Propane Tank

Keep the area within at least 10 feet of the tank free of debris, flood materials, vegetation, and other obstacles.

Clear access allows delivery drivers and service technicians to safely inspect and restore your propane system.

For additional propane safety tips, visit www.propane.com/floods or contact your local propane retailer.

About the Propane Council of TexasThe Propane Council of Texas (ProCOT) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the safe, efficient use of propane through consumer education, safety training, and industry outreach across the state.