Propane is a very safe fuel. But as with any energy source, there are steps you should take to further ensure your safety:

• If you detect a gas leak, immediately evacuate everyone from the house and call your local propane provider or the fire department from a neighbor's telephone.

• Learn what propane smells like. Propane retailers have scratch-and-sniff pamphlets to help your family recognize its distinctive odor.

• Know where gas lines are located, so you won't damage them when digging or working in the yard.

• Change or clean furnace filters regularly as recommended by the manufacturer.

• Don't store cleaning fluids, oil-soaked rags, gasoline, or other flammable liquids near a gas-burning appliance where vapors could be ignited by the pilot light.