Residents urged to use caution around propane and fuel tanks during flooding

Leaders in Vermont’s fuel industry are warning state residents that major flooding can cause damage to propane and fuel oil tanks, urging them to take precautions as flood waters rise across the state. 

In order to mitigate damage and danger of breaking fuel lines or broken or dislodged oil tanks, officials advise shutting off the tank service valve on any flooded heating equipment, according to a press release from the Vermont Fuel Dealers Association and the Heating and Cooling Contractors of Vermont.

If pumps, filters, electronic controls or other heating equipment have been underwater, homeowners should contact a Vermont certified heating technician to perform a complete inspection, they said.

Residents should immediately call the property’s fuel provider if any oil has spilled or is leaking, or the Vermont Hazmat Hotline if more than two gallons may have spilled, according to the release. 

They should immediately call their propane dealer or 911 if a propane tank is leaking or has become dislodged, the release said. In those cases, they should also shut down the affected equipment, turn off the gas if it is safe to do so and vacate the affected area. 

If an unknown propane or oil tank is found on a property — or if a resident’s own tank is missing — the representatives advised contacting the fire department or local fuel dealer.

Homes or businesses impacted by a release of heating oil may be eligible for assistance from the Vermont Petroleum Cleanup Fund, which can provide up to $50,000 to clean up a spill, after a $250 deductible, for residential properties. Officials advised residents should contact their insurance providers as soon as damage is detected.

“A quick response in these situations can help mitigate property damage and prevent fuel oil from seeping into soil and groundwater,” representatives wrote in the press release.