News release

Warning: Storing Propane Indoors Dangerous, Illegal

Fire Marshal (to Sept. 2000)

As the traditional barbecue season comes to an end, Nova Scotia's fire marshal has issued a warning pertaining to storing propane cylinders.

Robert Cormier strongly advises Nova Scotians to store propane cylinders outdoors, away from sources of ignition, such as heating or cooking appliances, and electrical switches. Indoor storage of propane cylinders not only violates the Liquified Petroleum Gas Regulations, but is extremely dangerous.

"Propane is a highly combustible gas when mixed with the proper amount of air," Mr. Cormier said. "Leaking propane is one and one-half times heavier than air and settles or collects in low areas of a building, such as a basement."

Barbecue propane cylinders contain enough gas to easily fill the basement of a house. If it reaches a source of ignition, the house would be destroyed and the residents seriously injured or worse.

The Liquified Petroleum Gas Regulations state the following:

  • store propane cylinders outdoors in a secure location
  • store propane cylinders away from sources of ignition
  • keep propane cylinders three feet (one metre) from any building opening
  • keep propane cylinders upright when being stored, transported, or used

Barbecues may be stored indoors only after the propane cylinder has been removed and safely placed outdoors.