4 steps to a safe and fun summer cabin season

Customers will be opening their cabins, many of which use propane as a fuel source, for the summer season soon.

This yearly milestone is something most of your customers look forward to all winter. Emphasize safety with them by sharing these four essential steps to safely opening a cabin for the season:

• Make a plan: Before driving up to the cabin, know what needs to be done. This might include checking your boat registrations, installing a dock and reactivating your electricity and water services. If your cabin runs on propane, schedule a summer fill and have your propane provider inspect your system for leaks or damage. Taking a proactive approach to these tasks prevents accidents and ensures a fun summer ahead.
• Visually inspect the property: When you arrive, your first step should be to visually assess the entire property. Look for damage from winter weather, like damaged deck boards or fallen trees, and pay special attention to your propane tank. The tank should be free of debris and have no damage. Identifying these issues early can help prevent potential fires or structural failures.
• Inspect appliances: Regardless of fuel source, ensure appliances are operating properly. Verify that all standing pilot lights remain lit, and if not, turn off the valve at your tank and contact your propane provider.
• Inspect detectors: Smoke, carbon monoxide and gas detectors are often overlooked in cabins. Replace the batteries, ensure operation and check the expiration dates of each detector.
  And last but not least, don’t forget your 20-pound propane tank for the grill.

Bryan Wendt is the propane operations and safety manager at CHS Inc. He can be reached at 651-355-8546 or bryan.wendt@chsinc.com.

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