Hawaiʻi Gas Safety Tips for 2019 Hurricane Season

Following forecasts predicting above normal activity in the 2019 hurricane season, Hawai‘i Gas has released gas safety reminders for customers and residents.

Hawai‘i Gas reminds customers and residents that it is important to check propane cylinders including portable cylinders for barbecue grills to make sure they are in good working condition. These are important supplies as gas grills can be used to cook food and heat water in the event of a power outage. Residents may also want to consider a propane or natural gas generator as a backup to supply electricity.

Storing portable propane cylinders in the correct manner is an important safety precaution. Portable propane cylinders must be kept in an upright position outdoors to ensure proper ventilation. Never store propane in an enclosed area like a garage or shed. Also, keep cylinders away from heat sources or sources of a spark when not in use.

Hawai‘i Gas customers should also inspect their gas equipment for leaks. Common signs of a potential gas leak include:

• Smelling gas (an odor like rotten eggs)
• Hearing an unusual hissing or blowing noise
• Seeing holes in the ground with gas hissing or blowing out of them
• Seeing gas bubbling at the surface of a body of water such as a puddle.

If you suspect a leak, turn off the gas, leave the area, and call 911 and then Hawai‘i Gas at (808) 535-5933.

In the event of an approaching storm, Hawai‘i Gas customers with permanently installed propane tanks should check their gas supply and request delivery from their local office as far in advance as possible.

Hawai‘i Gas customers who are sheltering at home during a storm should not turn off their gas unless advised to do so by emergency management officials or Hawai‘i Gas. However, customers who seek shelter outside of their home or are forced to evacuate are advised to shut off their gas supply if it is safe to do so. If you have shut off your gas, please contact Hawai‘i Gas to turn it back on. Do not turn on the gas yourself.