Propane Safety

Make Propane Safety a Priority With Advice From Ballenger Propane

Learn More About Propane Safety From the Propane Experts at Ballenger Propane

Your safety is Ballenger Propane’s top priority and we provide exceptional customer service to our clients. If you smell gas, it is likely your tank is running low, but it could be a leak. When you have concerns about your Ballenger Propane tank, call Ballenger Propane right away. Learn more about propane safety with our helpful guide.

Propane Safety

I smell rotting eggs. Do I have a propane gas leak in Columbia, MO?

A gas leak is a serious issue that should never be brushed aside. If you smell anything like rotting eggs, a skunk’s spray, or a dead animal in your home, exit and call Ballenger Propane right away. If you leave a gas leak unresolved, you may start to experience symptoms like nausea, headaches, dizziness, and more. A propane gas leak is also an extreme fire hazard. Never take a chance on a gas leak, as the results could be deadly.

Some people may have difficulty smelling propane. Causes may include:

  • Age (seniors may lose scent sensitivity as they age)
  • Side-effects of medication
  • Medical conditions or illnesses such as colds, allergies, or sinus congestion
  • Alcohol, tobacco, or drug use
  • Tobacco smoke, cooking odors, musty or damp smells, and other strong odors masking the scent

Please note the smell of leaking propane may not wake up someone who is sleeping. It may also be in an area of the building where it may not be detected, such as a basement, attic, or garage.


Odor loss is an unintended reduction in the concentration of the added odor, making it more difficult to smell. Situations that can cause odor loss include the presence of air, water, or rust in a propane tank or cylinder, or if the propane leaks through soil.

What to do if you suspect a gas leak in your mid-Missouri home or business
  • Turn off or blow out any open flames or smoking devices. These could spark and start a fire.
  • Do not turn on any electronics, including light switches. 
  • Do not plug in or unplug electronics as this could create a spark.
  • Remove your family and pets from your home as soon as possible. 
  • Turn off the gas valve on your propane tank. 
  • Open the lid
  • Turn the shut-off valve to the right to stop the flow of gas
  • Never turn the gas back on yourself ー national safety codes require a professional to inspect your system before starting it again
  • Call Ballenger Propane or 911 to inspect the tank and home for leaks. Make this call away from your home and propane tank. 
  • Do not reenter your home until a certified propane technician from Ballenger Propane has inspected the tank and given you the all-clear to do so. Only a Ballenger Propane technician can turn your propane back on.
  • If it is safe to do so, ask a Ballenger Propane technician to relight your pilot lights.
  • Do not use your propane-powered appliances until they have been inspected and approved for use.

Ballenger Propane, Inc. does not provide or sell propane gas detectors and as a customer, it is your responsibility to be proactive about your safety.

Ballenger Propane’s Duty to Inform

Accidents can occur when an appliance is removed and the line is not capped securely, or when repairs or installations are not performed properly. Changing appliances may also affect your annual gas usage, which is critical in scheduling deliveries. Call Ballenger Propane for an inspection to ensure the safe, efficient operation of your appliances and piping system. 


If you add or remove gas appliances, repair or service existing gas piping, or otherwise modify your propane gas system and its components, you should always remember to notify your propane supplier immediately. 


Follow these guidelines to ensure the safe & comfortable operation of your propane system
  • Notify Ballenger Propane when moving in or out of a residence so they can inspect the propane system and cap any unused lines.
  • Propane appliances must be installed by qualified professionals, in accordance with state law. Never let a non-qualified person install appliances.
  • You should notify Ballenger Propane of any installation, modification, repair, or servicing of your gas equipment or appliances.
  • If you smell gas, get out immediately! Do not make a phone call from your house. Turn off the gas at the tank and call Ballenger Propane immediately.
  • Running out of gas requires a leak check to the system, according to state codes. Sign up for an automatic fill program to avoid this expense.
  • Never use a propane cylinder inside your home.
Ballenger Propane keeps propane users safe thanks to strict propane regulation guidelines.
Missouri out of gas regulations

For safety reasons, the state of Missouri has adopted the National Fire Protection Association’s requirements regarding out-of-gas situations. These regulations require anyone delivering propane to an out-of-gas customer to perform a safety inspection of all lines, appliances, regulators, and control valves. A thorough safety check can take as long as an hour to complete, an adult must be at home at the time of inspection, and an inspection fee will be applied.

  • Why is an inspection necessary on an out-of-gas call?

    Propane is an extremely safe energy source when used properly. These strict out-of-gas regulations were enacted by the state of Missouri and NFPA to protect your family and property. Convenience, comfort, cost, and safety… These are four good reasons to avoid out-of-gas situations.

  • How to prevent out-of-gas situations

    At Ballenger Propane, we are here to help! We have options that can help you avoid the inconvenience and cost of an out-of-gas call.


    Automatic Delivery: We schedule regular deliveries based on your previous consumption so you won’t have to watch the gauge and worry about running out. 


    Tank Monitor: We can add a tank monitor to your rented tank which allows us to watch the tank level remotely eliminating all worry.

  • Regulatory safety

    The regulator on your propane system lowers the pressure in your tank to the correct pressure for your appliances. Maintaining the correct pressure means your appliances run more efficiently. Keep regulators clean of debris, leaves, and other matter so they can operate properly. 

Call Ballenger Propane when you need a propane refill

At Ballenger Propane, we take your safety very seriously. Propane is more dependable than electric energy and safer than natural gas, but like any energy source, it can be dangerous if it is not properly monitored and maintained. If you have any concerns or questions, do not hesitate to contact us immediately.

Contact Ballenger Propane

Mid-Missouri propane safety frequently asked questions

  • How does propane compare to natural gas or electricity?

    When compared to natural gas, propane has a lower range of flammability, meaning it must be a lot hotter for propane to combust than natural gas. Propane also burns cleaner than natural gas, releasing fewer dangerous greenhouse gasses. 


    When compared to electric energy sources, propane is a more reliable option. If the local electrical grid is damaged in a storm or accident, your propane-powered appliances won’t lose power. You can still cook, shower, and even dry your clothes. Propane is the smart choice for those who wish to gain independence from their local grid while maintaining a reliable heating and power system.

  • Should I turn off my propane tank if I’ll be away from my home for an extended period of time?

    It’s not necessary, but you may consider closing your propane valves just to be safe. If you choose to turn your propane off while you are away, only Ballenger Propane may turn the valves back on. Call us to schedule a service visit upon your return. 

  • Do I need to worry about my propane tank in bad weather?

    Unfortunately, your propane tank isn’t invincible. Extreme heat, wind, and floods can compromise your propane tank. When it’s incredibly hot outside, be sure to keep anything flammable at least 10 feet away from your propane tank. A sudden spark or flame is incredibly dangerous in hot, dry conditions. 


    Heavy rain and flooding can shift your tank from its position, disconnecting it from its gas lines. Not only does this expose the area to gas leaks, but your tank can also float away, damaging vehicles, trees, and other objects in its path. Heavy winds and tornadoes can also shift your propane tank, creating the potential for a gas leak. If a nearby powerline is blown down, one spark could have devastating consequences. 


    You can’t predict what a hot summer or storm is capable of but you can be prepared. Keep Ballenger Propane’s number in your phone and call our propane experts if you suspect bad weather has compromised your propane tank. 


    Ballenger Propane: 573-474-5501

  • What should I do if I run out of propane?

    Running out of propane is frustrating. Fortunately, Ballenger Propane offers many delivery options to ensure you never run out. Check out our lineup of propane delivery options here. If you are in a tight spot and need an emergency propane delivery, call Ballenger Propane. A propane technician will visit as soon as possible to refuel your propane tank.