CHECK YOUR PROPANE TANK

In 1998, the National Fire Protection Association enacted code changes for many types of propane cylinders which are commonly used to fuel outdoor grills, camp stoves, and on boats. With the exception of forklift, welding, and cutting gas cylinders, all cylinder sizes from number 4 to 40 will require an Overfill Prevention Device (OPD) by April of 2002.

The OPD is a float-activated device that was designed to assist in refilling propane tanks to safe levels. Propane gas expands if the temperature increases and the cylinder could become overfilled and expel propane out of the relief valve. When the proper fill level is reached, the OPD prevents more propane from entering the cylinder.

Since certification on propane tanks is required only once every 12 years, a lot of older tanks have remained in use without the device. County residents are urged to exchange tanks not equipped with an Overflow Prevention Device at an exchange center before the April 1, 2002 deadline. For more information, please contact the Cumberland County Improvement Authority at 825-3700.